Oxford United legend and former West Ham star Joey Beauchamp dies aged 50

Legendary Oxford United winger Joey Beauchamp has died at the age of 50.

Beauchamp, who also represented West Ham, Swansea, Swindon and Abingdon Town, made more than 350 appearances for the U's in two spells for the club.

Oxford wrote in a statement: "The thoughts of everyone at Oxford United are with the family and friends of Joey Beauchamp who has passed away aged 50.

"Oxford-born Joey signed as a YTS trainee in 1987 having been a ball boy at the Milk Cup Final in 1986 as part of the Summertown Stars side.

"He is currently 10th in the Oxford appearances table with 428 games, and fifth in the all-time Oxford goalscoring chart with 80.

"Having starred as a youngster and attracted the interest of many top clubs Joey was bought by West Ham United for £1,000,000 in 1994 before a spell at Swindon Town after which he returned to the Manor to help the side win promotion in 1996.

"A toe injury ended his career after his final goal for the club at the Kassam Stadium against Exeter City.

"The club will pay fitting tribute to one of its greatest ever players in due course but for now, we ask fans to allow Joey's family some privacy at this incredibly sad time."

Oxford fans paid tribute to Beauchamp on social media on Saturday evening.

"This has absolutely floored me this evening," tweeted one supporter. "Remembering him for what a sensational player he was and thinking of his family. RIP Joey."

Another fan wrote: " RIP Joey. Such a talent who loved the yellow shirt. Joey may be gone but will not be forgotten, such memories he left us with.

"Thoughts are with his family and friends."

And one supporter tweeted: "It's difficult to explain to people who aren't into football what the essence and soul of a football club is, and how a single person can define and represent so much about what a club means to its fans.

"Joey Beauchamp was, and will always be that for Oxford United. Gutted."

Ex-defender Ross Weatherstone - who played alongside Beauchamp at Oxford - wrote: "Honour to call you a friend and privileged to have graced the same football pitch as you.

"My thoughts are with all your family and especially your daughters. The greatest every player to wear the yellow of Oxford United.

"Sleep well my friend, heaven has gained the best left foot I have ever played with."

West Ham and Swindon also sent their condolences to Beauchamp's loved ones.

"The thoughts of everyone at West Ham United are with the family and friends of Joey Beauchamp," tweeted West Ham's official account. "Rest in peace, Joey."

Swindon added: "We are heartbroken to learn of the death of former Town player, Joey Beauchamp.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to Joey's family and friends at this incredibly sad time."