The body of former Socceroo Stephen Laybutt has been found following a police search on the NSW north coast.
Laybutt, who lived in Elizabeth Bay in Sydney, was reported missing on Saturday morning, having been last seen at a home in Casuarina on Friday evening.
Police discovered his car outside shops in Cabarita later on Saturday before his body was located in nearby bushland on Sunday evening.
The circumstances of the 46-year-old's death are not being treated as suspicious by police.
Laybutt, a defender, played 15 times for the Socceroos from 2000-2004.
The New South Welshman played in Japan, Netherlands, Belgium and Australia throughout a 16-year professional career.
Laybutt came out as gay following the conclusion of his playing career.
In 2021, Laybutt, who worked in the rehabilitation unit at St Vincent's Hospital, donated a kidney to a 67-year-old patient.
Former teammate Luke Wilkshire was among those to pay tribute to Laybutt.
"We all need to be better!" Wilkshire wrote on Instagram.
"Sadly players are easily forgetten.
Rest in peace, Laybs."
"Today, we mourn the loss of former Socceroo Stephen Laybutt. Stephen's journey from domestic leagues to the international stage exemplified dedication, skill, and the spirit of Australian football," James Johnson, CEO of Football Australia, said in a statement.
"His contributions to the Socceroos, especially during the OFC Nations Cup victories and the Sydney 2000 Olympics, have left a lasting legacy in our football community. We remember Stephen not just for his accomplishments on the field but also for his character and the positive influence he had on those around him.
"He will forever be remembered as part of the Socceroos family and will be deeply missed. Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time."
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