Former Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher has written a heartfelt tribute to Diogo Jota after the 28-year-old Portuguese striker died in a car crash alongside his brother Andre Silva near Zamora, Spain.
Kelleher, who joined Brentford in an £18m move this summer, spent five years with Jota at Anfield and described him as one of his closest friends in football. The Irishman attended Jota's wedding to Rute Cardoso in Porto less than two weeks before the tragedy.
Sharing a lengthy message on Instagram, Kelleher wrote: '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.' He recalled their shared love of darts, snooker and horse racing, as well as their pre-match programme quiz.
Jota had previously named Kelleher as his best friend in the Liverpool squad in 2024, saying: 'Nowadays I would say Caoimhin. There have been a few departing the squad.' The pair were also pictured together at the Cheltenham Festival in March alongside Andy Robertson and Conor Bradley.
Kelleher's tribute concluded: 'You were deeply loved by everyone at the club, the city and all over the world. It's gonna hurt for a long time but I feel so lucky to have got to know you. Love you Diogo.' Republic of Ireland team-mates John Egan and Adam Idah were among those who responded with support.
