'You were deeply loved' - Caoimhín Kelleher honours memory of friend and teammate Diogo Jota
The Portuguese forward died at the age of 28 in a car accident in Spain in the early hours of Thursday morning. His brother, Andre Silva, was also killed.
Kelleher and Jota contributed to Liverpool's Premier League success and became close friends during their time together at Anfield.
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'Can't believe I'm writing this right now and I'm finding it hard to put into words,' Kelleher began in a touching tribute posted on his Instagram account.
'I'm absolutely devastated by this news. All my thoughts and condolences are with Rute and their 3 beautiful kids and Diogo and Andre's family.
'It was a such a pleasure to get to know you over these years and to share some special memories on the pitch and even more so off it.
'You became one of my closest friends in football. We bonded over all things sports watching any football match we could find often your brother Andre's game on your iPad.
'I was surprised a lad from Portugal loved sports such as darts, snooker and horse racing so much and some of my best memories were having a laugh watching them with you.
'You were such a fun genuine, normal down to earth and loving family man and always very competitive I'm gonna miss our pre match programme quiz.'
Kelleher went on to mention Jota's wedding which took place only last week, and says he was honoured to attend.
'I feel so blessed and grateful to have seen you on your happiest day, the day of your wedding and to be able to share in that day with you was special. I'll never forget it.
'You were deeply loved by everyone at the club, the city and all over the world.
It's gonna hurt for a long time and I'm gonna miss you so much but I feel so lucky to have got know you and have such a good friend
'Love you Diogo.'
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