Fans turned out with scarves, banners and flags in memory of Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva
Fans turned out with scarves, banners and flags in memory of Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva
Liverpool’s match against Preston North End was an emotional affair as fans and players paid their respects to Diogo Jota. The pre-season friendly at Deepdale Stadium marked the first match since the tragic death of the Portuguese striker.
With a number of , supporters also turned out with their own special messages.
Approaching Deepdale, flags reading 'Diogo Jota' could be seen flying high as flowers were laid and number 20 shirts were worn with pride. Banners were also spotted with touching words about Jota and Liverpool FC.
Fans of all ages turned out to pay their respects to Jota and his brother Andre Silva. The siblings were laid to rest in their on Saturday, July 5 with many Liverpool players and staff in attendance.
Having postponed original plans to return to training, the Reds eventually began preparations on Tuesday, July 8, at the AXA Training Centre in Kirkby. On Thursday, Liverpool Football Club announced they would retire the number 20 shirt in Jota’s memory.
Inside Preston's stadium today, Liverpool supporters could be heard chanting in honour of Jota with official tributes beginning at 2.50pm.
A minute's silence was held from both sides with a moving moment shared as in front of Liverpool fans. Here's a round up of photos of the poignant tributes that were shared by Liverpool fans both inside and outside of the stadium.
Liverpool fans Tom Whitestone, 27, Delilah Whitestone 5, Aaron Cale 30 and Anne Cale, 44, hold up a Diogo Jota flag as they pay tribute to the player. (Image: Iain Watts/Liverpool Echo) 1 of 28
Noah, aged 8, holds up a sign in memory of Diogo Jota ahead of the first friendly of the season against Preston North End at Deepdale today. (Image: Iain Watts/Liverpool Echo) 2 of 28
Fans wear Jota shirts as they make their way to Deepdale Stadium.