Liverpool continues to mourn the loss of Diogo Jota. Ahead of the Premier League matchup, Sunderland midfielder Granit Xhaka paid a tribute to the former Reds striker.
Although Liverpool gathered up the thousands of tributes initially laid outside Anfield, with plans in place for a permanent monument of some kind, wreaths and flowers continue to be laid outside the ground by matchgoers and other well-wishers. Jota and his brother Andre Silva are hugely missed by the entire football community, having been taken in such tragic circumstances.
Xhaka became the latest to pay his respects. On behalf of Sunderland, he laid a wreath at the memorial prior to kick-off at Anfield.
As shared by the Black Cats on social media, Xhaka carried a wreath to the site of the tributes. Amid scattered applause from onlookers, he placed it among the many other tributes.
Whether it was decided on by Xhaka or by Sunderland, it was a classy gesture. It's the latest show of solidarity in the wake of the tragedy.
Chelsea, for example, committed a portion of its Club World Cup winnings to the family that Jota left behind. Ruben Neves, a close friend of the forward, has also pledged to assist the family however he can.
Ultimately, it is just nice to see that neither Jota's family nor Liverpool stand alone in all this. It is heartening to see how football has come together.
Xhaka has rapidly adopted a leadership role at Sunderland, taking on the captaincy since joining in the summer. He continues to take on the responsibilities that entails, representing the club with dignity and class at Anfield.
On the pitch, Xhaka has helped Sunderland make a better start to life in the Premier League than anyone imagined. His experience and know-how has contributed to a start that has all but lifted the north-east side out of the relegation conversation already.
Liverpool, of course, is hoping to stall that momentum. Arne Slot picked up a much-needed win against West Ham, and is desperate to keep things moving in the right direction.
There are many reasons for Liverpool's struggles. But the loss of Jota cannot be ignored, given the profound effect it had on all of his teammates.
Andy Robertson spoke candidly about it immediately after qualifying for the World Cup with Scotland. Virgil van Dijk has also spoken publicly about the impact of the tragedy.
Tributes like the one Xhaka paid are a small reminder that the loss of Jota has not been forgotten. Ultimately, what happens on the pitch is not particularly important.
If Liverpool can get the win at Anfield, it will move above Sunderland. You can follow updates here.