The man Marcus Rashdford paid tribute to during England's win last night over Wales has been named as Garfield Hayward.
The Manchester United striker scored a free kick for the Three Lions last night and then went on to perform an emotional goal celebration.
He sunk to his knees on the turf before pointing towards the sky with both hands.
After the game, the 25-year-old revealed it was a tribute to his friend Mr Hayward, who had recently died from cancer.
Rashford explained to reporters: “I lost one of my friends a couple of days ago. He had quite a long battle with cancer. I’m pleased I scored for him, he was a big supporter and good friend of mine. He was someone who came into my life.”
Pals said Garfield, known as 'Garf', was "loved by the whole of Manchester" as they paid tribute online.
Some shared images of floral tributes and of Rashford on TV following his dedication.
One wrote: "Big Garf was loved by the whole of Manchester and everyone who had the privilege of meeting him.
"Sending prayers and strength to all of his close friends family and loved ones."
A family member added: "My heart is hurting so much knowing I won't see you again in this life. Uncle Garf one of the realist people I've ever know. You was a big part of my life growing up. Just wish we could of made alot more memories together, it won't be the same without you being here. You was the man with the most beautiful soul.
"You didn't have a bad bone in your body you would give anything and everything you could with even a single bit of hesitation. I love you man and I'm so glad I got to tell you that. You will forever be in my thoughts and my heart till the day I die."
Another pal wrote: "RIP Garf can’t believe this is even one of my statuses one of Timmy’s oldest friends from the days you used to come up to the loft to just eat a scran and get off to coming to our wedding 18 years later.
"Timmy, me and the kids are all going to miss you so much make sure you look after Jan and Martin for us my heart breaks for all Garf’s family and friends. "
A fourth wrote: "Rest In Peace Garf Thankyou so much for being in our lives & being such a good friend.
"Words cannot explain how heartbroken so many people are. We will always be there to look after & support your family."
Minutes after Rashford's first goal, he scored a second goal - dashing Wales' chances of advancing to the round of 16.
Rashford's second strike was the 100th goal that England had scored at the World Cup finals.
Rashford took to Twitter after the game to post his second goal celebration, as he jumped for joy, surrounded by his England teammates, alongside the captain: “Last 16 here we come.”
Speaking to BBC Sport after the game, Rashford said of England's win: "It's obviously a great feeling. We were disappointed as a team after the last game, we could have played a lot better. The only way to bounce back is to play better in your next game."
The striker added: "Moments like this, this is what I play football for. I am really happy today to be going into the next round of the tournament, because I have massive ambition for this team and I think we can go a lot further."
Speaking of his free-kick goal which opened the scoring and eventually sparked England's victory, Rashford said: "I fancied one in the first half, but the one in the second was in a better position. Then it's being calm and executing what you do in training."
England boss Southgate said of Rashford after the match: "It's great for him, he has trained really well. He has been impressive since he came back to us, he could have had a hat-trick. That free kick is what he is capable, it's an incredible strike.
"In moments I thought both of them [Rashford and Foden] were quiet in the first half, so we switched wings. They responded well, for both to get goals was great."
England will now play African champions Senegal – who finished as runners-up in Group A after beating Ecuador earlier on Tuesday – in the Round of 16 clash on Sunday evening. Group B runners-up USA will take on the Netherlands, after the North American side saw off Iran 1-0 on Tuesday.
