Former Premier League youngster Oliver Spedding, who turned his back on football to move into the porn industry, has died at the age of 34.
Spedding came through the ranks at Crystal Palace but fell out of love for the game when he served time in prison. He continued playing at non-league level with Croydon FC, having moved into porn.
The defender’s former club Croydon announced his passing and held a minute’s silence before their match on Saturday. A statement read: “Oliver played for the club over a couple of spells and was a much loved individual who always gave his utmost effort for the team.
“Oliver will be hugely missed by everyone at the club and our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”
Spedding, who was in a relationship with fellow adult film star Sophie Anderson, became a painter and decorator after his jail stint before going into porn. He revealed he was paid just £150 per movie and often regretted turning his back on a potential career at Selhurst Park.
Speaking on the Anything Goes with James English podcast last year, he admitted: “When I was at Crystal Palace, if I’d have stayed with them, then I could have been earning a lot more playing football.
“I used to fight as well, maybe that could have gone somewhere. I was good at both of those things, but being a porn star, I thought that would be just as good – but it’s not as good as people think.”
Croydon manager Liam Giles admitted he had discussed a potential return to football with Spedding before his passing. He wrote on social media: “Such heartbreaking news, Ollie was a warrior on the pitch and gave 100% every time he represented Croydon.
“We spoke a couple of weeks ago about him getting back into football. I hope you find your peace mate. Sleep Tight.” Tributes also poured in from former teammates from his time at the non-league club.
