British soccer fans were left in mourning this week after Welsh star Wayne Evans passed away this past weekend at the age of 51.

According to the Manchester Evening News, Evans died suddenly on Sunday while in the United States. Known as "Evo" to his fans, the player was remembered fondly by the teams that he played for, including Rochdale F.C.

Minute of silence held before practice

We're deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Dale man Wayne Evans.

The full-back played 297 times for the club between 1999-2004, putting him 8th on our all-time appearances list.

Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this tough time.

R.I.P. Evo 💙#RAFC pic.twitter.com/VJzfuVi4xS

— Rochdale AFC (@officiallydale) July 2, 2023

The following day, Rochdale players held an on-field moment of silence for Evans ahead of their morning practice session.

Ahead of this morning's training session, the players and staff held a minute's silence in memory of Wayne Evans 💙#RAFC pic.twitter.com/STcMjkLdqS

— Rochdale AFC (@officiallydale) July 3, 2023

Kidderminster Harriers F.C. also took note of Evans' death, stating, "The club sends its condolences to his family and loved ones at this sad time."

Wayne Evans made 15 appearances for Harriers in 2005-06.

The club sends its condolences to his family and loved ones at this sad time. ❤️

— Kidderminster Harriers 🦅 (@khfcofficial) July 2, 2023

"An absolute legend"

Meanwhile, Walsall F.C. announced that it is "very sad to learn that former player Wayne Evans has passed away," adding, "Our thoughts are with Wayne’s family and friends at this difficult time."

Walsall Football Club are very sad to learn that former player Wayne Evans has passed away.

Wayne represented the Saddlers between 1993-1999 and will be missed by all at the Poundland Bescot Stadium.

Our thoughts are with Wayne’s family and friends at this difficult time ❤️

— Walsall FC Official (@WFCOfficial) July 2, 2023

Fundraiser held to transport Evans' body home

Ordinary fans spoke out about Evans' passing too, with one praising him as an "absolute legend at Rochdale and one of the steadiest performers we've ever had."

Absolutely gutted to hear of the passing of Wayne Evans aged just 51.

An absolute legend at Rochdale and one of the steadiest performers we've ever had.

RIP Evo pic.twitter.com/DWKZpcYJ5B

— Chaff (@ChaffRAFC) July 2, 2023

The Evening News noted that former teammate Chris Marsh created a page on the fundraising website JustGiving to collect funds for the return of Evans' body.

One for Walsall fans, who might have seen the awful news that Wayne Evans died suddenly this week, aged just 51. He was living abroad and his old mate Chris Marsh is among those raising funds to help bring him home. #WalsallFC #Saddlers https://t.co/XizBQt3OUs

— Steve Madeley (@SteveMadeley78) July 3, 2023