'I'm extremely proud' - Arne Slot praises Liverpool squad for their 'strength and courage' after the passing of Diogo Jota

Slot is preparing his Liverpool players for the start of the Premier League season, and they face Crystal Palace in the Community Shield on Sunday. Their preparations have taken place in the shadow of Jota's tragic passing, as he and his brother, Andre Silva, died in a car crash in July. 

Liverpool have retired the late Portugal star's No.20 shirt and have announced plans for a memorial to be erected at Anfield. The squad attended Jota's funeral, and Slot has now credited the heart and fortitude of his players. 

Slot told the FA's website: “This summer has been a difficult for everybody connected with the club,” said Slot. “The passing of Diogo Jota had a big impact on all of us and is something that we are still coming to terms with. We cannot imagine the pain that Diogo’s family, his wife, children and friends are going through, and the club will continue to give them all the support they can going forward.

“Diogo’s passing has had a big impact on us all, but what has been so important has been the love and care shown from the football world, and in particular of course the Liverpool FC community.

“I also want to mention the strength and the courage of my players here. They have found themselves in one of the toughest positions imaginable, but the way they have come together and the way they have conducted themselves, on and off the pitch, is a credit to them and to this football club. We really couldn’t have asked more of the boys, and I am extremely proud of them all.

“We will always carry Diogo with us in our hearts, in our thoughts, wherever we go.”

Liverpool face Palace on Sunday before kicking off their Premier League title defence against Bournemouth the following Friday.