“FC Shkupi has taken the decision to withdraw from using the number 77, which Andrej Lazarov wore until his premature death. This is a very small gesture from our side, as a sign of respect and gratitude for his contribution to the club. Also, the club has decided that his family should be paid the salaries according to the contract Lazarov had with FC Shkupi. Andrej Lazarov will forever remain a part of the history of FC Shkupi, and these decisions made by the leaders are a small token to honor his memory.” – said Shkupi in a statement.

Lazarov joined Shkupi at the end of the summer transfer period and played in 8 league and 1 cup match this season.

In addition to Tikvesh and Shkupi, he also played for the Croatian clubs Rudeš and Gorica, as well as Rabotnichki, and also played in the youth categories of Metalurg, while he began his career in his hometown club Kochani.

Lazarov (25) died in hospital due to burns and toxic smoke inhalation after he was heroically saving partygoers in the deadly nightclub fire in Kochani.

Previously Tikvesh retired the number 16, which Lazarov wore while playing there.