Thursday, September 8 at just past 6 PM (BST) will be remembered as a moment of national tragedy for the United Kingdom.
Yes, Chelsea's loss to Dinamo Zagreb and Arsenal's defeat last weekend at Old Trafford were bad enough in a footballing sense to digest for supporters of the London duo. But Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II's passing at the graceful age of 96 has sent this country into a period of national mourning. Having served 70 years as Britain's longest monarch, it's going to take some time for people to process the change of the guard from the Queen to the new King (Charles III). Not only have Politicians and many celebrities paid their fitting tributes to someone who brought so much joy and stability to the United Kingdom, but a range of footballers have also sent in their messages to the Royal Family at this difficult time of grieving.
The Gunners were playing their opening UEFA Europa League game in Zurich when this news hit whilst Chelsea were acclimatising to welcoming their new manager Graham Potter and Spurs were almost certain to be recharging on their day off after their 2-0 victory on their Champions League return against Marseille. All three clubs are likely to see their Premier League game week 7 fixtures cancelled later on today as a sign of respect for Charles III's mother.
READ MORE: Queen dies aged 96: Arsenal pay tribute with national anthem and minute silence in Zurich
With all of this in mind, football.london rounds up some of the fitting tributes the players of each three clubs paid to Her Majesty.
Harry Kane tweeted: 'My thoughts are with the Royal Family at this very difficult time. The Queen was an amazing inspiration and will be remembered for her incredible years of service to this country. Rest in peace, Your Majesty.'
Thiago Silva put: 'May the Queen Elizabeth Rest In Peace. She served her people selflessly, with kindness, loyalty and dignity until the very end. British people and people around the world are going to miss you.'
Reece James tweeted: 'Rest in Peace [followed by a dove and love heart emoji]'.
Mason Mount tweeted: 'Thank you for your service. Rest in peace, Your Majesty.'
Arsenal Women's captain Leah Williamson paid her respect: 'A constant presence of grace and decency in a world that continued to change around her. An exceptional person. A light so bright, she was a warm voice amongst times of despair. A Queen who unified the people she dedicated her life to. Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.'
Arsenal youngster and current loanee Charlie Patino simply wrote: 'RIP ma'am.'
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