2 months ago
20
Liverpool star Andy Robertson has made the devastating admission that he doesn't expect he and his colleagues to ever get over the death of Diogo Jota. Reds forward Jota tragically died in a car accident in July, just days after his wedding to long-term partner Rute Cardoso.
Tributes have poured in for Jota and his brother Andre Silva, who also perished in the crash, from throughout the footballing community. Liverpool has retired their number 20 shirt in his memory, whilst Portugal have given the number 21 - worn by Jota at international level - to his close friend Ruben Neves.
Robertson shared a tight bond with Jota, and discussed the loss of his mate and teammate whilst on Scotland duty. "I don't think anyone could care less about football when things like that happen," the left-back said.
"Such a shock. Devastating for his family first and foremost, but obviously devastating for us as a group of lads. It puts life into perspective as to what's important - spending time with your family, spending time with your kids, because you never know what's around the corner.
"It's the toughest thing we'll ever go through. Losing one of your closest mates for me was hugely difficult and it's something we'll probably never get over but it's just something that we have to carry with us."
Jota played a pivotal role in Liverpool's Premier League-winning campaign under Arne Slot last season.
Their opening fixture in defence of the title proved to be a deeply moving occasion, with Federico Chiesa paying tribute to the late striker following his decisive strike in the triumph over Bournemouth.
"[The goal] was a great moment for me but my thoughts go to Diogo," the Italy international said at the time. "I think for what we have seen it was his day.
"The feeling that the fans gave me, chanting his song all the way through the match. It was very emotional, very emotional for me. I have to say that after the goal my thoughts went to his family, his brother Andre. That's the only thing I could say."
When the final whistle sounded in that Bournemouth encounter, Mohamed Salah was clearly overcome with emotion as supporters continued their touching homage to Jota.
Robertson has acknowledged that every member of the squad will "need help" as they process the loss of their mate and colleague, who he insisted will "always be in our hearts".
"We've already had difficult moments in terms of the first time in front of fans, having to go to your team-mate's funeral which is absolute madness to even say, and everything else that followed," Robertson added.
"I know the leaders in that changing room have got a big job to do in terms of trying to help everyone as a club and even Diogo's family through this massively difficult moment.
"It won't get easier but maybe we can numb the pain a little bit as time goes on. It's up to as leaders to try and guide us guide us through that."
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