Scotland skipper's reaction to Diogo Jota tragedy I knew Liverpool needed me.. we're all going to need help and maybe us leaders can numb the pain a little as time goes on

IN the summer, Andy Robertson had already decided he needed Liverpool.

- SCOTT MCDERMOTT IN COPENHAGEN

After the tragic death of his Anfield team-mate Diogo Jota he then knew Liverpool needed him too.

The Scotland captain had a huge decision to make on his future, with just a year left on his contract in Merseyside and the arrival of Hungarian left-back Milos Kerkez.

The 31-year-old had options to go elsewhere. The likes of Spanish giants Atletico Madrid wanted to take him.

But after discussions with his family, he knew his heart still lay in Liverpool.

If that call wasn't emotional enough, losing his close pal Jota heightened it beyond comprehension. Robertson attended the funeral in Portugal and says he'll NEVER get over the devastation of his passing.

At that moment, he knew he'd made the right decision to stay at Liverpool, irrespective of how much game time he might get.

Jota's death put football - and life in perspective. And as part of the club's senior leadership group of experienced players, he wasn't wiling to leave grieving players and supporters.

As he reflected on the toughest summer of his life, Robertson said: "It was the most difficult thing we'll ever go through. It was such a surprise, such a shock.

"It was devastating for Diogo's family, first and foremost - but also for us as a group of lads.

"I don't think anyone could have cared less about football at that time. When things like that happen, it puts life in perspective as to what's important.

"Like spending time with your family, your kids. Because you never know what's around the corner. It's the toughest thing we'll go through. Losing one of my closest mates, for me, it was hugely difficult.