YORK City have paid tribute to former striker Craig Farrell, who has died aged 39.

Farrell joined York from Exeter City in 2006 and scored 10 goals in his first season as Billy McEwan's side reached the play-off semi-finals of the Conference National, losing out to Morecambe 2-1.

The former Middlesbrough and Leeds United youth player bagged 14 goals in the following season, including a quick-fire hat-trick against Rushall Olympic in the FA Cup, the third-fastest treble in City's history.

Farrell only managed three goals in the 2008/09 campaign and he spent the latter half of the term on loan at Oxford United.

After leaving York permanently for Rushden and Diamonds, Farrell went on to represent AFC Telford United, Hinckley United, Blyth Spartans and Whitby Town.

Earlier in his career, he had featured for Carlisle United and was also capped three times by England Under-16s.

York City paid tribute to Farrell, writing on Twitter: "We are saddened to learn of the passing of former player Craig Farrell, aged 39.

"Craig made 111 appearances and scored 27 goals for City between 2006 and 2009. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time."

The York City fanzine Y Front said: "Absolutely stunned to hear the news of the passing of ex-York City player Craig Farrell.

"When at York, he never gave anything less than his all which endeared him to the fans. My thoughts are with all his family and friends."

Farrell's former clubs, Whitby, Blyth and Exeter, expressed their sadness at his passing.

"Everyone at Whitby Town is extremely saddened to hear of the passing of former player Craig Farrell," said Whitby. "Rest in peace, Faz."

Blyth stated: "We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former Blyth player Craig Farrell. Rest in peace, Faz."

Exeter said: "All at Exeter City are saddened to hear of the passing of former Grecian Craig Farrell. Our thoughts are with Craig's family and friends at this sad time."