A QUIET MAN ADORED BY ALL

Liverpool star had his own struggles but he cared more about other people

- By Chris McKenna

DIOGO JOTA was a man who loved so much more than football.

He was a Premier League winner, a player who lifted the FA Cup, the Carabao Cup twice, a Championship trophy and two Nations League titles.

Jota adored football but he loved life outside the sport too.

He was a husband and a father to three young children. His wife Rute Cardoso, who he married only last week, will be suffering more than anyone.

But in time, she can take comfort from knowing just how adored her husband was, as a footballer and also as a person.

Jota was a quiet character when it came to media duties. Sometimes he would need to be encouraged to talk and, when he did, he would be shy and reserved but always willing to respond to questions.

A year ago, on Liverpool’s preseason tour of America, he wanted to speak. He addressed his previous injury problems, his admiration for Jurgen Klopp and his eagerness to impress new head coach Arne Slot.