League: Ligue 1 Sport: Soccer Country: France Category: Scores & Results

Darren Williams honors Eric Roy after former player passes away

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 19, 2026, 7:16 AM

Last updated Jun 19, 2026

Darren Williams honors Eric Roy after former player passes away

Summary

Darren Williams paid tribute to his former Sunderland teammate Eric Roy, who died due to pancreatic cancer on Wednesday. Roy, who managed Ligue 1 club Brest, played alongside Williams during the 1999-00 season, helping Sunderland secure a seventh-place finish in the Premier League. Williams highlighted Roy's positive demeanor and his impact on younger players during their time together. The two-year stint at Sunderland remains memorable for Roy's contributions and personality.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Eric Roy managed Ligue 1 club Brest at the time of his death.
•Roy and Williams played together during the 1999-00 Premier League season.
•Sunderland finished seventh that season, marking a strong performance.
•Williams praised Roy for being supportive and approachable.
•The tribute reflects the lasting memories teammates share.

Latest Updates

7:16 AMYahoo Sports — 'Flamboyant and polite' - Williams pays tribute to Roy

What they're saying

"
Former Sunderland midfielder Darren Williams says former team-mate Eric Roy "always had a smile on his face" during his short stint at the Stadium of Light. Roy, who was managing Ligue 1 club Brest, died on Wednesday. The pair played together in the 1999-00 season, helping the newly promoted Black Cats to an impressive seventh-place finish in the Premier League.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Ligue 1 Soccer