Model's death 'devastates' player

Amy Leigh Barnes died from her injuries in hospital

Blackburn Rovers striker Benni McCarthy says he is "devastated" by the death of a young model who was stabbed to death at her Bolton home.

The footballer spoke of his anguish over the death of 19-year-old Amy Leigh Barnes. She was found by police at her home in Farnworth on Saturday.

In a statement from the football club, Mr McCarthy said: "Amy Leigh was a friend of mine."

A 21-year-old man is being questioned on suspicion of Miss Barnes' murder.

He was arrested in the West Midlands at the weekend and taken to Manchester for questioning.

Modelling assignments

Mr McCarthy added: "I am obviously devastated to hear of this tragedy.

"My condolences go out to her family and friends at this sad and difficult time."

Meanwhile messages have been left by other footballers on a tribute page on Facebook.

Oldham Athletic player Paul Black wrote "r.i.p x", while West Bromwich Albion striker Ishmael Miller posted the message: "R.I.P. Amy Leigh".

Her friends on the website include former Hollyoaks actress Hannah Tointon, who played the role of Katy Fox.

Others include Fraizer Campbell, currently on loan to Tottenham Hotspur from Manchester United, Phil Jagielka, of Everton, and Leroy Lita, on loan to Norwich City from Reading.

Miss Barnes had worked on modelling assignments for Cosmopolitan and Nuts magazines and appeared in the soap Hollyoaks.

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