Conor Bradley scores first Liverpool goal since Diogo Jota’s death after perfect tribute

Conor Bradley fired home the opening goal of the game at Deepdale after Preston North End and Liverpool had come together to pay tribute to Diogo Jota

Conor Bradley offered a muted reaction after scoring Liverpool’s first goal since the death of the Northern Irishman’s good friend Diogo Jota.

Right-back Bradley was on hand to turn home from close range after good work from Rio Ngumoha and Federico Chiesa in the first half of the Reds’ opening pre-season game of the campaign at Preston, where emotional tributes were paid to Jota before the match.

After scoring Bradley since turned away and looked to the heavens, before turning to embrace the rest of his team-mates.

Liverpool’s players had gathered in the centre circle for a minute’s silence prior to the match, while Preston had produced a special free matchday programme in honour of both Jota and his brother Andre, and performances of Preston anthem ‘Can’t Help Falling In Love’ and Liverpool’s ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ were sang before the game.

READ MORE: Liverpool vs Preston LIVE: Diogo Jota tributes and first match since death – UpdatesREAD MORE: Liverpool stars pay tribute to Diogo Jota in emotional scenes at first match since tragic death

Bradley was one of Jota’s closer friends within the Liverpool squad, and he attended the Cheltenham Festival alongside Jota, Scottish defender Andy Robertson and Irish goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher in March. Due to Jota’s enjoyment of sports such as horse racing, Robertson, Kelleher and Bradley would often joke that he was more Scottiash or Irish than Portuguese.

Writing on Instagram after Jota’s death, Bradley said: “Where do I start what an incredible footballer but an even better person I feel really lucky to have spent a few years with you.

“Was always nice coming into the changing room in the morning and seeing you smiling and laughing and consistently calling me a hanger.

“Always remember the first time you invited me to your room to play FIFA I think everyone knows where this is going, we was playing and by half time I’m pretty sure I was 5-0 down that was the last time I was ever falling into that trap.

“When I first moved up from the academy you were always there for me and always helped me settle in with the lads which I’ll be forever grateful for.

“My thoughts are with your wife, children and family for losing both Diogo and Andre. I can’t imagine how tough this is for you all, as I know how tough this feels for me today. Love you jots and I’m sure we will meet again.”

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.