Virgil van Dijk has expressed his gratitude to both Liverpool fans and Preston North End following the heartfelt tributes paid to Diogo Jota at Deepdale on Sunday. The match was the first occasion Arne Slot's side had played since the tragic passing of the Portuguese forward and his brother, Andre Silva, in a car accident on July 3.
Before the game commenced, both teams honored the memory of the brothers with several tributes, while Liverpool supporters continuously chanted Jota's name during the game.
After the final whistle, the crowd led an extended version of Jota's beloved chant, with the Liverpool players joining in the applause in front of the fans.
Although Van Dijk did not feature in the squad for the clash against the Championship team, he was present at Deepdale, standing with his teammates as they faced the supporters post-match.
Taking to Instagram, Van Dijk shared a clip of the squad clapping in unison with the fans, sharing his thoughts on what was undoubtedly an emotional day.
"An emotional day but good work from the boys," he posted. "Thanks for all your love and support, Reds."
He also showed appreciation for Preston North End, saying: "Big thanks to @pneofficial and good luck for the rest of the season!"
Virgil van Dijk and Liverpool's players watch on as fans pay tribute to Diogo Jota
Virgil van Dijk and Liverpool's players watch on as fans pay tribute to Diogo Jota (Image: Getty Images)
Van Dijk concluded his message with a tribute to Jota, stating: "Forever 20!!!" followed by a heart emoji.
Liverpool confirmed its decision to retire Jota's number 20 jersey on Friday evening at 20:20.
Following discussions with Jota's wife, Rute, and family - who visited Anfield on Friday (July 11) to pay their respects at the memorial site dedicated to both brothers - the club decided to permanently retire the shirt in tribute to the Portuguese player.
Liverpool fans showed their love for Jota at Preston
Liverpool fans showed their love for Jota at Preston (Image: Getty Images)
This marked a first for Liverpool, as Jota became the inaugural player to receive such an honor, with the retirement of the number 20 shirt extending across all levels of the club, encompassing the men's first team, women's team and various Academy sides.
"By retiring this squad number, we are making it eternal — and therefore never to be forgotten,” FSG CEO of Football Michael Edwards said. “Diogo joined us in 2020, he won us number 20, and he wore — with honour, distinction and affection — the number 20.
"As far as Liverpool Football Club is concerned, he will be forever our number 20."
* An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story. You can read the original story in the Liverpool ECHO by clicking here.