Tributes continue to pour in for Liverpool forward Diogo Jota after his tragic passing on Thursday.
The news that Jota and his brother had been involved in a fatal road accident in Spain shocked the whole football world.
Thursday was a day of sheer sadness and incredulity, not only in Liverpool where Jota was so loved, but in the wider sporting community as well.
It was a time for tributes and reminders that even when a person appears to have it all, disaster can be only moments away.
Jota will never be forgotten for what he gave to football, and he leaves this world as a Premier League champion and a Liverpool legend.
The 28-year-old touched the hearts of so many on Merseyside, and former Everton striker Richarlison has demonstrated that his death has affected those on the Blue side just as deeply.
Everton FC v Wolverhampton Wanderers - Premier League
Photo by Chloe Knott – Danehouse/Getty Images
Richarlison delivers Diogo Jota tribute
Richarlison has often enjoyed playing the role of pantomime villain when coming up against Liverpool.
Anfield is no great friend to the Brazilian and has let him know that on plenty of occasions.
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However, Richarlison also has a reputation for being a whole-hearted and conscious footballer, and he proved that again with a touching message for Jota delivered on Instagram.
“Diogo has always been a great opponent, a talented and respectful player on the pitch,” the 28-year-old posted, alongside a black and white photo of Jota celebrating.
READ MORE: Diogo Jota: Remembering a hugely talented footballer but an even better human being
“We are all devastated by your departure. My condolences to families, friends and all the fans, especially Liverpool, Portugal and all the other clubs where you passed and left your mark.
“May God receive Diogo and his brother Andre in all his glory! May you rest in peace.”
Richarlison played part in one of Jota’s greatest moments
It was fitting to see Richarlison send his wishes to Jota and his family, not only because of his status as a symbol of the rivalry between Liverpool and Everton, but because the Brazil international played a big part in one of the No. 20’s most memorable moments in red.
"That is the most Tottenham thing you will ever see." 😬
Just MOMENTS after Richarlison equalises for Tottenham, Jota slips another into the net!! 🤯 pic.twitter.com/PFl2GT4tq4
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) April 30, 2023
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Richarlison was the Tottenham player who fired home a late equaliser at Anfield in May 2023. Having been 3-0 down early in the game, Spurs fought back to level the game.
But with Richarlison and his teammates still in celebration mode, Jota instantly went up the other end and slotted home a typically clinical left-footed finish in front of the Kop.
With Anfield going berserk all around him – and Richarlison taking the brunt – Jota was completely calm.
As others screamed and roared, the little Portuguese held his teammates off to sit on the turf and play an imaginary PlayStation controller. A moment which truly summed Jota up.