Henderson wipes away tear as ex-Liverpool skipper pays Jota tribute at Anfield
Jordan Henderson wiped away tears as he returned to Anfield with a tribute for former Liverpool teammate Diogo Jota. The Portuguese forward died in a devastating car crash in Spain on Thursday night alongside his brother Andre Silva.
The footballing world has been struck by grief since the news was confirmed, with kind messages being sent from all corners of the globe. Ex-Liverpool skipper Henderson - currently playing for Dutch side Ajax - decided to return to Merseyside to pay his respects.
The midfielder laid a scarf and flowers within a growing memorial to Jota outside of Anfield. He was also spotted wiping away a tear as he attempted to come to terms with the heartbreaking loss of his former teammate.
Henderson's gesture comes just a day after he had written a touching tribute on social media. He said: "I really can't believe what has happened today and all I can think about is Diogo and Andre's family. It's unimaginable the pain you all must be suffering. All of our prayers, love and support are with you now and forever.
"Jots it was a pleasure to share a pitch with you but more importantly a friendship. All the laughs we had off the pitch and trying to find ways to wind milly up and get him fined, which we never could.
"Taking pictures of me asleep on the bus travelling then sending them to me later. You always wanted to have a laugh and were a pleasure to be around. I know how much Rute and your family meant to you and I know you will always be looking down on them.
"Thank you for everything you brought into this world, we will all miss you. Rest in peace along with your brother Andre. Love ya mate. YNWA."
Henderson has joined many of his ex-teammates in paying tribute to Jota and his brother. Current captain Virgil van Dijk also penned some words, while making a vow to Jota's family.
He said: "Man, I can't believe it, I don't wanna believe it. Absolutely devastated and in total disbelief. What a human being, what a player, but most importantly what an unbelievable family man.
"You meant so much to all of us and you always will! For your family to lose two sons, a husband and a father is just unimaginable. So cruel and unfair.
"My heart is breaking for all of your beautiful family, for Rute and for your kids. I promise you that in these difficult times and beyond we will always be there for your family.
"A champion forever, number 20 forever. It's been a privilege to have stood by your side on the pitch, and to have been your friend off it. We will miss you beyond words and never forget you. Your legacy will live on, we will make sure of it! Rest in perfect peace Diogo & André."
Liverpool have already delayed their return for pre-season following the news of Jota's passing. They were originally set to return this Friday for initial testing but that has now been pushed back to Monday at the earliest.
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