Luis Diaz was scheduled to start for Liverpool against Nottingham Forest on Sunday in the Premier League, but Diogo Jota has disclosed that he was informed of his parents’ abduction.
Given that the 26-year-old’s parents were kidnapped over the weekend in their native Colombia, it makes sense that he will not play in today’s match at Anfield.
But shortly after the first of the Reds’ three goals, his teammates made a gesture to make sure the forward was top of mind.
In a heartfelt display of support, a jersey was thrown to Jota as he dashed to the touchline after his first goal. The Portuguese winger then raised the shirt to see “Diaz 7” on the back.
Liverpool’s number 20 acknowledged he wasn’t supposed to start against Forest in an interview with BBC Match of the Day following the game, saying: “Luis was with us in the hotel then he went home.” It’s a really difficult circumstance, and I’m not sure how anyone would respond if it were you.
He intended to play. In his place, I played and showed him his shirt to reassure him that we are rooting for him and that everything will work out.
“The possibility that something like this might occur is unfathomable. We only need to lend a hand and let him know we support him.
Although the outcome this afternoon is pleasing, it must be viewed in light of the reality that the kidnapping in Colombia has given rise to a far more serious problem.
The best possible homage was given to Luis Diaz by his teammates, who took advantage of the opportunity to demonstrate their support for him during this extremely traumatic ordeal by scoring three points in his absence.
What matters far more than the result of a football game is that we continue to pray for his parents’ safe return home.
We really love him as Liverpool fans YNWA