British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has offered his heartfelt condolences following the tragic death of Liverpool and Portugal striker Diogo Jota this morning during a media briefing.
"Let me start with Jota because this is devastating news," he said. "I am sure I speak for everyone in saying our first thoughts are going to be with his family and his friends in particular.
"There are millions of Liverpool fans but also football fans and non-fans who will also be shocked by this. It is devastating and really important we bear in mind just how difficult a period this will be for his friends and for his family."
"Liverpool Football Club are devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota," the club said in a statement earlier. "The club have been informed the 28-year-old has passed away following a road traffic accident in Spain along with his brother, Andre.
"Liverpool FC will be making no further comment at this time and request the privacy of Diogo and Andre’s family, friends, teammates and club staff is respected as they try to come to terms with an unimaginable loss.
"We will continue to provide them with our full support."
Diogo Jota
Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard was among those to react to the news on social media. He sent a heartfelt message to Jota's family and friends on Instagram, with Jamie Carragher having earlier done likewise once the player's death was confirmed.
"RIP Diogo," Gerrard wrote alongside a greyscale picture of Jota that had been posted by the official Liverpool FC account. "Condolences to his family and friends during this incredibly sad time," Gerrard said.
"Devastating news about Diogo Jota and his brother Andre this morning," Carragher added. "Thoughts are with everyone in their family and friends, especially his wife Rute and their three lovely kids."
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"It doesn't make sense," Cristiano Ronaldo has posted on social media. "Just now we were together in the national team; you had just got married.
"I know you will always be with them. Rest in Peace, Diogo e André. We will miss you."
"Our deepest condolences are with the loved ones of Diogo Jota and his brother, Andre, and everyone connected with Liverpool FC following today’s heartbreaking news," a Manchester United post on social media read.
"We are devastated by this tragic news," Everton added. "Everyone at Everton is sending their thoughts and condolences to the family and friends of Diogo and Andre Silva."