Wigan Athletic in mourning as coach passes away at the age of 57

Miller only joined Latics over the summer, having followed Gary Caldwell and David Perkins from Exeter City.

Latics cancelled their scheduled press conference on Thursday morning as a mark of respect.

And the tributes were quick to come in from the football family.

"An incredible person who had time for anyone and everyone, put smiles on people's faces every single day,” said Latics goalkeeper Joe Whitworth, who worked with Miller over the last two seasons while on loan at Exeter, before joining Latics earlier this term.

"Believed in me when nobody else did, so grateful to have spent so much time together in the past three years, and was an absolute pleasure to be around every day.

"A true legend in every way, will forever be missed. Rest easy Kev."

Former Manchester United junior Alan Tonge said: “Totally devastated and distraught to hear of the tragic passing of my old Exeter City team mate and great friend Kev Miller. Only 57.

"An absolute hammer blow to all who knew him. Not only a top class keeper, but a top class fella too. RIP Big Kev. Fly high till we meet again.”

Nigel Gibbs, an ex-colleague at Watford, said: "I’m really saddened to hear about the sudden passing of my ex@WatfordFC team-mate Kevin Miller.

"He was a fantastic goal keeper & an even better person. My thoughts and prayers are with Kevin's family, friends and all who knew him.”

Barnsley old-boy Darren Barnard said: “Sad news hearing about the passing of my ex@BarnsleyFC team-mate Kevin Miller.

"He was a great goalkeeper and a really good lad around the dressing room. My thoughts and prayers are with Kevin's family, friends and all who knew him.”

Former Premier League goalkeeper Mark Crossley said: “RIP Kevin miller a top keeper and a great lad. Thinking of family and friends. 57 far too young.”

Jack Aitchison, who played for Exeter under Miller, said: “Absolutely gutted, Always had a smile on his face .. Proper top guy! Rest easy mate.”

Miller’s playing career spanned over 18 years, including more than 700 career appearances, including a spell in the Premier League.

He played for Exeter City, Birmingham City, Watford, Crystal Palace, Barnsley, Bristol Rovers, Derby County, Southampton and Torquay United.

Miller’s coaching career started in 2022 as goalkeeping coach at Exeter, who paid their own tribute.

"Kevin was an incredibly popular figure during his time at St James Park, earning a place in the hearts of supporters with his performances between the posts and his wholehearted commitment to the club,” read a statement on the club’s twitter account.

"At just 57, his passing is a huge loss to his family, friends and everyone who knew him. Exeter City Football Club sends its deepest condolences to Kevin's family and friends at this incredibly difficult time. Our thoughts are also with Gary Caldwell and our former staff at Wigan Athletic.

"The club will be supporting those who were close to Kevin and will be commemorating Kevin’s time with us and his memory in an appropriate way. Once a Grecian, always a Grecian."

Well wishes were also sent from the rugby league world.

"Wigan Warriors would like to share our condolences following the sad news of the passing of goalkeeper coach Kevin Miller," the club posted.

"Our thoughts are with those at Wigan Athletic, Kevin's family, friends and colleagues at this sad time."

Latics’ opponents this weekend also sent a message of goodwill.

“We send our deepest condolences to the friends, family and colleagues of Kevin Miller, who has passed away suddenly,” read a tweet from the Wycombe Wanderers account.

"Kevin was part of the staff at Saturday's opponents Wigan Athletic, and we offer our full support to everyone at the club as they mourn his loss.”