Saints have paid tribute to a ‘devoted’ fan who died after falling at St Mary’s Stadium.

Simon Oakley was watching the home game against Rotherham when he collapsed shortly before half time on October 7.

Mr Oakley, of Oslo Towers in Weston, suffered a spinal injury and remained in Southampton General Hospital but sadly died on November 13.

The football club has since led the tributes to the 59-year-old.

A Saints spokesperson said: “Everyone at Southampton Football Club stands united in solidarity and extends our deepest condolences to the grieving family.

“Throughout this challenging journey, the Saints community, together with the club officials, have stood by the family, offering support and comfort.”

The club praised the response and care given to Mr Oakley following his fall at the stadium.

Daily Echo: Saints coaches alert officials to a medical emergency in the crowdSaints coaches alert officials to a medical emergency in the crowd (Image: Stuart Martin)

The spokesperson added: “We are immensely grateful for the quick response and unwavering dedication of the stewards, paramedics, and medical professionals who played a crucial role in the immediate care provided.

“Additionally, we commend helpful actions of fellow supporters in the area, whose cooperation allowed for an effective medical response.

“We will continue to honour the memory of Simon and offer our support in any way possible during this difficult period.

“Rest in peace Simon. Once a Saint, always a Saint.”

Tributes have been flooding in for Mr Oakley online.

Gary Winser said he will ‘never forget’ the moment he saw him collapse.

Commenting on the Daily Echo’s Facebook page, Gary said: “RIP.

“I was sat by where he fell and I shall never forget it.

“Sincere condolences to all his family and friends.”

Barry Biddis was also watching the Southampton FC match.

He said: “I witnessed what happened that day.

“RIP - a sad loss to his family and our club.”

Chris Moulsdale added: “Rest in peace.

“This was one of the worst things I had to witness. Condolences to his whole family.”

Several other people shared their condolences, describing the heartbreaking news as ‘so sad’.

Christine Lawrence said: “So very sad. Condolences to his family.”

Barbara Johnson said her thoughts go out to Mr Oakley’s family and friends, while Tina Lowe added: “RIP Simon. Sending my thoughts and love to all your family.”

Play was paused after supporters, coaches, and players alerted the referee to Mr Oakley’s condition.

CPR was then administered to him in the Itchen Stand.

The full inquest is due to be held on October 15 next year at Winchester Coroner's Court.

Community answers

Share your memories of Simon Oakley

"Share your memories and well wishes for Simon Oakley and his family here."

We asked for your responses - this is what you sent.

From Malc Robinson

Did you know Simon? If so, how did you know him?He was a close mate and always had a nice word to say about everybody

What are your memories of him?Down the pub after a saints game, and him getting out the lift and always saying hello to my daughter

Please share your tribute to him here.R.I.P Simon you will be missed by everyone! Up The Saints!! send us some good luck every match!

From Justin Oakley

Did you know Simon? If so, how did you know him?Simon was my Uncle

What are your memories of him?He was a devoted Saints fan.

Please share your tribute to him here.R.I.P Uncle Simon, your bravery and courage will never be forgotten.

From Jessica Mabey re oakley

Did you know Simon? If so, how did you know him?he is my uncle a caring one at that he looked after his loved ones dearly . my som his great nephew was at the match at the time he heard the commotion but never knew it was his uncle

What are your memories of him?him being an uncle and a great uncle to my children spending time with me and them he used to take them out most saturdays.

Please share your tribute to him here.Rip uncle simon the best ones always get taken first. renuited with your falmily including dad. Until we meet again

From Claire Oakley

Did you know Simon? If so, how did you know him?He was my uncle by marriage

What are your memories of him?Unfortunately I don't have any memories with him but I know he was a wonderful man full of love and laughs

Please share your tribute to him here.So sad you are gone xxx I may not of ever had the privilege to meet you but I've heard lots of wonderful things about from family and know that you were a wonderful man full of love and life and always up for a laugh and a good time xxx You will be very missed xxx May you rest in peace Uncle Si xxx Up the Saints xxx

From Community contributor

Did you know Simon? If so, how did you know him?My niece's uncle

What are your memories of him?Xx

Please share your tribute to him here.Rip Simon, taken far to young xx

From Sara stretch

Did you know Simon? If so, how did you know him?Ex boyfriend

What are your memories of him?Playing pool at London Arms Woolston, maltesers for mum, playing the decks

Please share your tribute to him here.Rip my friend at peace ❤️

From Fern Harris nee Biles

Did you know Simon? If so, how did you know him?Simon and I went to Woolston School together, although it’s been years since I’ve seen him it only feels like yesterday that we were there.

What are your memories of him?Simon and I got on really well and I will always treasure the memories from our school days

Please share your tribute to him here.Rip Simon, sending love to all your family, thinking of you all xx

From Chris SHARPE

Did you know Simon? If so, how did you know him?I knewSimon from Ludlow, he was in the year below me.

What are your memories of him?Was adecent footballer at school.

Please share your tribute to him here.Really sorry to hear of his passing. Condolences to his family.

From Jay Murchadha

Did you know Simon? If so, how did you know him?Not well but yes. Met him on our journeys to St Marys sometimes.

What are your memories of him?Very pleasant man to speak to with a great knowledge of everything Saints.

Please share your tribute to him here.Forever remembered and forever in our hearts. Rest In Peace mate.

From Neil smith

Did you know Simon? If so, how did you know him?Friend

What are your memories of him?X

Please share your tribute to him here.Rip mate never forget ya up the saints X