'So, so sad' - Jack Grealish pays tribute after death of One Direction star Liam Payne as Man City forward issues 'be nicer to each other' message to the world

Former Soccer Aid participant Payne passed away in Buenos Aires, Argentina on October 16 at 31 years of age. His passing has led to an outpouring of emotion from fans of his musical endeavours.

Not every comment passed has been positive, though, with social media awash with opinion and speculation. Grealish has added his voice to those making a public statement in the wake of tragic events in South America.

England international Grealish has posted on Instagram, alongside an image of his fellow West Midlands native Payne: “Awhhh no. This is so sad man!! So so sad!! RIP Liam Payne. Have to start [being] nicer to each other in this world man.”

Instagram

West Brom are among the other footballing institutions to have paid tribute to Payne. They said after learning of the Wolverhampton-born singer’s passing: “We're shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of Baggies fan and musician, Liam Payne. Our thoughts are with Liam's family, friends and loved ones at this tragic time.”

The charitable organisation Soccer Aid said in a post of their own: “Everyone at Soccer Aid for UNICEF is devastated to learn of the sad passing of Liam Payne. Liam captained England in 2022 and returned for the 2023 match to play a second time. Thank you for everything you did to help support children around the world, Liam. The thoughts of everyone at Soccer Aid for UNICEF are with Liam’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.”