Seb Adeniran-Olule dead: Harlequins rugby player dies in road traffic accident, aged 20

Adeniran-Olule had represented England at youth level and had already made his senior debut for Harlequins

Jack de Menezes
Wednesday 11 May 2016 16:18 BST
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Harlequins prop Seb Adeniran-Olule has died at the age of 20
Harlequins prop Seb Adeniran-Olule has died at the age of 20

Harlequins rugby union player Seb Adeniran-Olule has died after being involved in a road traffic collision, aged 20.

Adeniran-Olule, a prop for the Premiership club’s academy, represented England Under-20s and made his first-team debut earlier this season, going on to make three appearances for the senior side.

In a statement released by the club, Harlequins said they were “deeply saddened” by the news, with director of rugby Conor O’Shea adding that Adeniran-Olule was “an incredible talent” that would be missed by the entire club.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Seb's family and friends at this difficult time," said O'Shea.

"Seb was an incredible talent and had already represented England at under-age level, as well as making his senior debut for Quins at just 20.

"He will be sorely missed by the whole squad, as well as by the wider club."

Adeniran-Olule also represented England at under-16 and under-18 level, while he also featured in four of England Under-20s five matches at the 2015 World Championship in Italy.

Seb Adeniran-Olule made his Harlequins debut earlier this season

The Rugby Football Union’s national academy development manager, John Fletcher, admitted he was “devastated” by the news, having overseen Adeniran-Olule’s rise through the ranks of international rugby.

"I am devastated. He was a fantastic kid,” said Fletcher.

On the pitch, he would get you off your seat, and as a front-row player that is fairly rare

&#13; <p>John Fletcher, RFU national academy development manager</p>&#13;

"He was one of the most skilful players in his position I have ever seen.

"He always played the game with a big smile on his face and could do some phenomenal things with the ball.

"As a character he was quiet, had incredible work-rate, was popular and first to learn.

"On the pitch, he would get you off your seat, and as a front-row player that is fairly rare. He had some outstanding moments with the ball in hand.

"He should be remembered as a great kid. I loved coaching him. It's a tragic loss."

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