Former Nottingham Forest Youth Team player Derrick Otim tragically died at the weekend after drowning in a lake during a swimming accident in South Carolina.

The Ghanaian born youngster was raised in Nottingham from an early age and went to the Gedling School whilst making the Nottingham Forest Academy team with his brother Elvis before moving to America to study at Xavier University in Cincinnati where he had been after leaving Forest in 2015.

Otim, who was just 24 years old, was a friendly fun filled young man with an infectious smile, always lighting up the room with his mood and appearance with many having coached or worked with him quick to praise and reflect on the joys he always brought with him.

Basford United Manager Steve Chettle who worked with Otim at Nottingham Forest Academy stated “Words cannot describe the feeling when I got the devastating news of Del’s passing. He was one of the nicest, hard working, kindest people in the world and would light up the room with his infectious smile. Everyone that had the pleasure of meeting him are going to miss him”.

Former team-mate Ben Osbourne now at Sheffield United saying “Absolutely tragic news about Derrick Otim. One of the kindest, well mannered, selfless lads you’d ever meet. Thoughts go out to his younger brother Elvis and the rest of his family. So sad. Rip Del boy – you’ll be missed by everyone that knew you!”

Derrick was on a trip with friends to Lake Keowee where he tragically drowned. He had only been in contact with his brother Elvis last week saying how much fun he was having. Thoughts to all Del’s friends, family, and our wishes and condolences to all that knew him.