Preston footballer Johnny Greenwood met his newborn great niece virtually before his death, sister reveals

Johnny, pictured with his parents and sister, Jo

Technology meant the dad-of-one, from Fulwood, was able to see little Mabel Grace, a second child for his niece Lauren.

Johnny, a former pupil of St Anthony's primary school, and Our Lady's High School, was found dead at home by relatives three days later, aged just 39.

From the age of 10, until he was 16, Johnny played for Cadley Boys FC.

he also played for various other teams including Broughton Amateurs, BAe Springfields, Ingol AFC and Tanterton FC.

He had even been invited for a trial at Everton FC as a youngster but broke his finger and couldn't go.

By day Johnny had worked as a mechanic at Wilson Commercials in Leyland, and away from football he enjoyed fishing on the canal.

His sister Jo said: " He made really good friends in football and our parents did too with other mums and dads.

"It was a big part of his life and theirs.

"We have always had a close relationship and I can't imagine the world without him.

"There are so many stories and memories. We used to go on holiday every year to Nefyn in Wales, there are fond memories of that.

"As the older sister I was quite bossy with him but he always went along with me. He was a kind family man .

"In football he was calm and quiet and always shook hands with everyone because he was brought up to be polite and respectful, and that carried on into adulthood.

"We are overwhelmed by the love shown, and I want his daughter to be able to look back and see all the comments and know her daddy was really loved."

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