Midfielder Paul started his career with Charlton Athletic, making 23 league appearances, before a move to Leyton Orient in 1997.
His time with the O’s was brief and he headed south to the Albion that December, going on to become a regular in a Third Division side that successfully pulled clear from relegation, despite playing ‘home’ games at Priestfield.
Paul then joined Welling United in July 1998 before seeing out his career with further spells in the south-east non-league circuit with the likes of Billericay Town and Dover Athletic.
He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer 18 months ago, but thanks to the efforts of his friends and those in the football family, a staggering sum was raised that gave him a sadly all too short lived reprieve. The Paul Linger Trust will ensure his name lives on and will continue to fundraise to support his young son.
“Paul was a great player and also a good lad in the dressing room,” recalls Albion team-mate Kerry Mayo. “He had some great stories to tell and came to us with the nickname ‘Cloughie’ which I think was due to his passing resemblance to Nigel.
“He was very well liked in his time with us and he certainly played his part during the Gillingham days. I knew he was ill but this has come as a terrible shock and my heart goes out to his young family.
“It again proves how cruel this world can be. We have lost one of the good guys.”
On behalf of everyone at Brighton & Hove Albion we extend our deepest condolences to Paul’s family and friends.