Farrell scored 71 league goals across a career also taking in Rushden and Diamonds, Exeter and a host of non-league clubs after coming through Leeds’ youth system.

Carlisle chairman Andrew Jenkins told the club’s website: “I am so sorry to hear this news, Craig was such a likeable young man.

“I think we can all agree that 39 is such a young age. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this very sad time.”

Craig Farrell during his Whitby Town days

Manager Paul Simpson added: “I speak on behalf of everybody at the club when I say that our thoughts are with his family and friends.”

Oxford, where Farrell spent time on loan in 2009, tweeted: “We are saddened to learn of the death of our former striker Craig Farrell, aged 39. Our thoughts are with Craig’s family and friends.”

Farrell finished his career with spells at Telford, Hinckley, Blyth Spartans and Whitby. He earlier won three caps for England Under-16s, scoring once against Slovakia at the 1999 European Under-16 Championship.

Leeds United youth player and Yorkshire non-league striker Craig Farrell dies aged 39