Diogo Jota: Sir Keir Starmer speaks following 'devastating news' of footballer's death
Sir Keir Starmer has said the news of Diogo Jota's death was 'devastating' as he paid tributes to the family and friends of the Liverpool footballer.
Diogo Jota, 28, died in a road traffic accident in Spain on Thursday morning (July 3), with the Portuguese Football Federation president, Pedro Proenca, later confirming that Jota's brother, Andre, 26, also died in the crash.
Jota had previously played for Wolverhampton Wanderers between 2017 and 2020 before moving to Liverpool.
Sir Keir said that the news was 'devastating' and that millions of football fans would be shocked.
The Prime Minister said: "Let me start with Jota, because this is devastating news.
"I'm sure I speak for everyone in saying our first thoughts are going to be with his family and his friends in particular.
"But there are millions of Liverpool fans, but also football fans, and non-fans, who will also be shocked by this.
"I think Liverpool Football Club have just put a statement out, as I understand it, but it is devastating, and it is really important we bear in mind just how difficult this will be for his friends and for his family."
Liverpool's statement said: "Liverpool Football Club are devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota.
"The club have been informed that the 28-year-old has passed away following a road traffic accident in Spain along with his brother, Andre.
"Liverpool FC will be making no further comment at this time and requests the privacy of Diogo and Andre’s family, friends, teammates and club staff is respected as they try to come to terms with an unimaginable loss. We will continue to provide them with our full support."
