Brief
Former England youth striker James Walker dies at 38
Southend United will hold a minute’s applause before their next match in his memory.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Former England youth international striker James Walker has died aged 38, the Independent reported on 1 October 2026. Walker, a Charlton Athletic academy product, made 54 appearances for Southend United between 2008 and 2010.
Southend United announced a minute’s applause before their National League game against Fylde at Roots Hall on Saturday. The club’s statement said it was "deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former player James Walker at the age of 38".
Charlton Athletic also released a condolence statement, expressing sympathy to Walker’s family. Former clubs Leyton Orient, Yeovil Town and others posted similar messages on social media, recalling his loan spell at the Glovers where he scored three goals in 13 games.
Walker suffered a cardiac arrest in 2019 while teaching a PE class, which left him with severe physical and mental impairments. He had previously represented England at Under‑17 and Under‑18 levels before switching allegiance to Antigua and Barbuda, earning a single senior cap.
Key facts
- James Walker died at age 38 (independent.co.uk)
- He played 54 games for Southend United between 2008‑2010 (independent.co.uk)
- Southend United will hold a minute’s applause before their match against Fylde (independent.co.uk)
- Walker suffered a cardiac arrest in 2019 while teaching a PE class (independent.co.uk)
Sources
- [1] independent.co.uk — originally reported as “James Walker: Ex-England youth star dead at 38”
