Friends and family of Man Utd fan Nashon Esbrand came together for a charity football match yesterday, with the proceeds going towards his funeral costs.

Islington Gazette: Friends and family of Nashon Esbrand play football to raise money for his funeral. Picture: Catherine DavisonFriends and family of Nashon Esbrand play football to raise money for his funeral. Picture: Catherine Davison (Image: Catherine Davison)

Nashon was stabbed to death in Mitchison Road, off Essex Road in Canonbury, on August 24. The 27-year-old had become a dad just a week before.

Players and fans donated to take part or watch the match at the Market Road pitches, which was organised by friend Ange Doua as part of a wider fundraising campaign that has so far raised £3,815.

Islington Gazette: Friends and family of Nashon Esbrand before the football match played to raise money for his funeral. Picture: Catherine DavisonFriends and family of Nashon Esbrand before the football match played to raise money for his funeral. Picture: Catherine Davison (Image: Catherine Davison)

“It was a really good day,” said Ange, a fellow Utd fan who had spoken to Nashon about Zlatan Ibrahimovic resigning for the team the day before he was killed. “Around 20 people turned up to watch and it was really positive, everyone was happy.

“We didn’t keep track of the score but there was some really good football played.”

Islington Gazette: Ange Doua, friend of Nashon, who organised the football match played to raise money for his funeral. Picture: Catherine DavisonAnge Doua, friend of Nashon, who organised the football match played to raise money for his funeral. Picture: Catherine Davison (Image: Catherine Davison)

Nashon’s funeral will take place on October 13. To donate to the fundraiser, visit gofundme.com/nashonesbrand.