Diogo Jota's best man at wedding unveils emotional new tribute to late Liverpool star

Diogo Jota's Portugal team-mate and best man at his wedding, Ruben Nevesrevealed a poignant tattoo depicting him embracing the late Liverpool forward. Countless tributes have been made to the former Reds star and his brother Andre Silva following their tragic deaths in a car crash on July 3.

Just over four months on, Neves was facing Ireland in his nation's World Cup qualifier. Deep into stoppage time, Neves struck a dramatic winner, sending him and his Portugal colleagues into raptures.

With emotions running sky-high amongst the squad, he also honoured Jota by planting a kiss on the number 21 adorning his jersey – the number Jota typically wore during international appearances.

READ MORE: Giorgi Mamardashvili goes from zero to hero as Liverpool star saves Spain penalty

READ MORE: Steven Gerrard makes shock Rangers call as Russell Martin replacement decision made

Neves, who also previously lined up alongside Jota at Wolverhampton Wanderers before hiscurrent stint with Saudi Arabian outfit Al-Hilal, proceeded to pull down his left sock to display another emotional homage to Jota.

He showed off a tattoo capturing the duo in an embrace whilst representing Portugal, complete with Jota sporting his trademark No. 21 shirt. The strike marked Neves' maiden goal for Portugal and arrived during their first home international fixture since Jota's passing.

When questioned whether he believed the goal was destiny, Neves told Sport TV: "I think so. My first goal for the national team, with this number, couldn't have been better.

"It was the desire and passion he had to be here with us. He [ex-Everton manager and now Portugal manager Roberto Martinez] said that each of us would inherit a little bit of who Diogo was and today was one of those games.

"A very difficult game, with a team defending extremely low, with practically no space. It had to be this way."

Martinez also offered an additional tribute to Jota during his post-match press conference, maintaining his spirit continues to flow through his squad. The former Toffees chief said: "I totally agree. They are signs of happiness, we already had that during the September training camp.

"We scored during the 21st minute, against Hungary we conceded in the 21st minute and today [Saturday, against Ireland] Rúben Neves, who changes his jersey, scores with the determination, intelligence and arrival in the area of our Jota.

"For us it is a sign, a joy to feel that Diogo is with the family that is the National Team, but also that it is a responsibility to fight for Jota's dream, which is everyone's dream."

Martinez also added: "We won the Nations League and Jota was part of that success. He's a strength for us, a source of motivation because he wanted to win the World Cup. We have a responsibility to fight for the Portuguese people, as always, but we have a responsibility for Diogo, and that's very special."

Portugal are now on the brink of securing their spot in next year's World Cup, to be held across the USA, Canada and Mexico. They've had a flawless run so far, bagging nine points from three matches in a group which also includes Hungary and Armenia.

Meanwhile, Neves wasn't the only one paying homage to Jota over the weekend. During a charity match between Chelsea and Liverpool legends at Stamford Bridge, ex-Liverpool player Ryan Babel honoured Jota by mimicking his signature clapping celebration, a gesture he frequently made during his time at Anfield.

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.