Portsmouth mourn loss of ‘wall of noise’ defender and huge local favourite

Pompey are mourning the death of Aaron Cook, aged 46.

The former Blues defender and academy graduate died on Thursday morning, after a brave fight with cancer.

Cook will be remembered for coming through the ranks at Fratton Park and making a single senior appearance - in the incredible ‘wall of noise’ game against Stockport County in 1998.

He went on to become a hugely popular and respected figure on the non-league circuit, gaining a reputation as a leader in stints with the likes of Hawks, Gosport Borough, Salisbury and Moneyfields.

Tributes have been pouring in for the man from the Isle of Wight, who played for Downside Youth before being picked up by Pompey.

Former Blues defender, Dave Birmingham, played with Cook coming through the ranks at PO4 and later with Gosport - where he captained the side and gained two promotions.

Birmingham said: ‘It’s a massive, massive loss - Aaron was such a nice lad.

‘He came over from the Isle of Wight and I knew him coming through at Pompey - he always looked out for the youngsters.

‘I can’t speak highly enough of Aaron, his morals and everything about him - he was a real bloke.

‘He was a leader and certainly should have had more professional appearances than he picked up.

‘But everywhere he went he was loved: the fans loved him, players and staff loved him.

‘The tributes we’ve seen in recent days say it all - he’ll be dearly missed.’

Gav Jones, who played with Cook at Pompey and Gosport, gave an insight into a man ‘who loved football and his family’.

He said: ‘Aaron was a brilliant man and a brilliant team-mate who loved his wife Suzanne and his children William, Charlie and Maya.

‘Suzanne has been with him the whole way and been unbelievable, bringing their wedding forward.

‘They’ve had support from Darren Robson, too, for a man who was everything to the non-league fraternity.

‘I’ll always remember his debut against Stockport. I was stood outside the kit room and at half-time he walked past laughing and said: “It’s a good job I’m fit Gav, because the pace of the game is ridiculous!”. He was so happy that night.

‘Everyone knew him as “Skip”. He was the life and soul of the changing room and everyone respected him. He is someone who everyone knew and loved.’

Hawks added their condolences, with Cook moving to Westleigh Park after leaving Pompey in 1999.

They said: ‘Aaron went on to make just under a century of appearances in Hawks colours over a few years with us in PO9 and boasted an excellent career locally in the game.

‘The thoughts of all of us at Havant & Waterlooville are with Aaron’s loved ones, friends and all affected by such tragic news. Rest in Peace Aaron.’

Salisbury, where Cook played for four years and was captain, spoke of a man who was a 'leader' and 'warrior'.

They said: ‘Aaron was more than just a player. He was a leader, a warrior, and a huge part of one of the most successful periods in our club’s history. Making over 180 appearances for Salisbury, Aaron was the rock at the heart of the defence and a true captain in every sense of the word.

‘His commitment, passion and determination helped shape the club during a memorable era that so many supporters still cherish today.

'Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Aaron’s family, friends and former team-mates at this incredibly difficult time.’