Portugal pay touching tribute to tragic former Liverpool star Diogo Jota

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Portugal manager Roberto Martinez has explained the decision to reallocate Diogo Jota's squad number(Image: AFP via Getty Images)

The Portuguese national team have paid tribute to Diogo Jota by giving his squad number to the tragic forward's close friend and former Wolves and Porto team-mate Ruben Neves.

Jota, 28, died in a car crash in July along with his brother Andre Silva, and Portugal are set to play their first games without him in September.

Liverpool have already made the decision to retire the number 20 in honour of the Portugal international.



Squad number rules in international football meant that wasn't an option for the national FA, but they have found another solution when it comes to the 21 shirt he wore for his country.

"The number 21 jersey will go to Ruben Neves because, that way, that number will remain on the field and with all of us," Portugal boss Roberto Martinez said.

International boss Martinez has also paid wider tribute to Jota, who was a popular figure with his club and international team-mates.

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"We know what Diogo meant to each of us and the impact he had on our lives," the former Belgium boss said.

Diogo's absence is a factor of unity, motivation and responsibility, because Diogo wanted to win the World Cup, and we are here to fight and achieve that dream."

Ruben Neves and Diogo Jota during their time together at Wolves(Image: Getty Images)

Liverpool retired Jota's number 20 shirt after consulting with the forward's wife Rute Cardoso and his family.

By retiring this squad number, we are making it eternal – and therefore never to be forgotten.

“Diogo joined us in 2020, he won us number 20, and he wore – with honour, distinction and affection – the number 20.