Liverpool release statement after tragic death of Diogo Jota, 28, in car crash

Liverpool have released a statement after star forward Diogo Jota passed away on Thursday morning in a road traffic accident.

The Portuguese forward died early this morning in a traffic accident in Zamora province, Spain, according to reports. The accident reportedly occurred at kilometer 65 on the A-52, close to the Sanabria area in Zamora.

President of the Portuguese Football Federation, Pedro Proenca, has also confirmed that Jota's brother, Andre, 26, died in the incident. The news arrives just days after the Portugal international married his long-term girlfriend Rute Cardoso, with whom he has three children.

Jota's club, Liverpool, have now released a statement after his death was confirmed. It reads: "Liverpool Football Club are devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota.

"The club have been informed 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 request 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."

Figures from English football have led tributes on social media, with Carragher saying: "Devastating news about Diogo Jota & his brother Andre this morning. Thoughts are with everyone of their family & friends, especially his wife Rute & their three lovely kids."

Gary Neville added: ""That is heartbreaking news on Diogo Jota and his brother. All my love and best wishes to his family."

Proenca also added his own tribute, saying: "The Portuguese Football Federation and all of Portuguese football are completely devastated by the deaths of Diogo Jota and André Silva, this morning, in Spain.

"Much more than an amazing player, with almost 50 internationalizations for the National A Team, Diogo Jota was an extraordinary person, respected by all teammates and opponents, someone with an infectious joy and a reference in the community itself.

"On my behalf, and on behalf of the Portuguese Football Federation, I express my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Diogo and André Silva, as well as Liverpool FC and FC Penafiel, the clubs where, respectively, lined up the players.

"The Portuguese Football Federation has already asked UEFA for a minute's silence, this Thursday, before the match of our national team with Spain, in the women's European Championship.

"Lost to two champs. The disappearance of Diogo and Andre Silva represent irreparable losses for Portuguese football and we will do everything to, daily, honor their legacy."