In the lead-up to the showpiece clash between Liverpool and Manchester United, United’s captain Bruno Fernandes has publicly paid tribute to his fellow Portuguese international Diogo Jota, showing respect beyond the fierce rivalry.

United are traveling to Anfield for one of the biggest fixtures in English football, where emotions and stakes are always high.

To see the take time to honour a player from a rival side speaks of respect and solidarity.
Jota was not only a rival for Fernandes, he was also a compatriot. Both Fernandes and Jota played together for the Portugal national team.

Jota and his brother André tragically died in a car crash in July, an incident that shocked the football world.

Bruno Fernandes pays tribute to Diogo Jota

After the incident, Fernandes travelled to Liverpool to lay a wreath at the memorial.

Now, Fernandes and his team will travel to Anfield for the first time since the passing of Jota and it will be an emotional return to Anfield for him.

The Man United captain spoke to Sky Sports ahead of the big clash against Liverpool on Sunday.

Fernandes said: “No, obviously, it’s difficult and sad not to have your national teammate there.

“Played many times against him, not only with the Liverpool...