Liverpool and Manchester United fans have paid a touching tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo following the death of his baby son.
Yesterday, the United star and his partner Georgina Rodriguez announced the awful news on social media. The pair had been expecting twins and Rodriguez gave birth to a baby girl: "It is with our deepest sadness that we announce the passing of our baby boy. It's the greatest pain any parent can feel. Only the birth of our baby girl gives us the strength to live this moment with some hope and happiness.
"We would like to thank the doctors and nurses for all their expert care and support. We are all devastated at this loss and we kindly ask for privacy at this very difficult time. Our baby boy, you are our angel. We will always love you. Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodriguez."
Less than 24 hours after the announcement, United faced bitter rivals Liverpool in a Premier League clash at Anfield. Understandably, Ronaldo was not involved as he took time to grieve with his family.
In the seventh minute of the match, a nod to Ronaldo's shirt number, fans from both sides put their rivalries on ice to join in a minute's applause. Fans inside the ground also belted out a rendition of 'You'll Never Walk Alone', traditionally a Liverpool football anthem, which carried clear sentiments during such a difficult time for the United forward.
"It's a massive touch of class, that, from Liverpool," said Ronaldo's former United team-mate Gary Neville on Sky Sports' commentary of the match.
Players from both sides wore black armbands, with Liverpool posting on their official social media platforms: "All of us here at Liverpool FC send our deepest condolences to you, Georgina and the family."
Ahead of the game, presenter Kelly Dalglish said on Sky Sports' coverage: "Messages of support have been flowing in for Cristiano Ronaldo after he and his partner Georgina Rodriguez announced the death of their newborn son. It's hard to know what to say in such circumstances but, of course, we want to add our support and our best wishes to the family. Understandably, Ronaldo will take no part in this evening's game as he stays at home with his family."
Speaking before the game, Neville added: "First thing we want to say is to pass our best wishes to Cristiano Ronaldo and his family after the news yesterday, which was terrible."
Since Ronaldo revealed the news on social media, over half a million messages have landed on his Instagram page alone, with Man United's official account saying: "Your pain is our pain. Sending love and strength to you and the family at this time."
