Daijiworld Media Network - Liverpool

Liverpool, Dec 27: Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has said he hopes the deep sense of affection and respect shown by everyone connected with Liverpool Football Club towards Diogo Jota will provide some comfort to the late footballer’s family, ahead of what is expected to be an emotional afternoon at Anfield on Saturday.

Liverpool are set to face Wolverhampton Wanderers, Jota’s former Premier League club, in their first meeting since the popular Portuguese forward was killed in a tragic car accident along with his brother Andre Silva in early July.

Speaking ahead of the fixture, Slot said the overwhelming support and love for Jota from fans, players and the wider football community reflected the impact he made both on and off the pitch.

Jota was travelling through northern Spain in the early hours of July 3, on his way back to Merseyside to report for pre-season training, when a tyre burst caused the fatal accident.

The match is expected to be particularly poignant, with Jota’s wife Rute set to attend the game along with their sons Dinis and Duarte, who will serve as mascots on the day.

The club is expected to hold tributes in memory of Jota, as Anfield prepares to honour a player remembered not just for his goals and work ethic, but also for his humility and close bond with supporters.