Man United fans encouraged to join forces with Liverpool in Diogo Jota tribute at Old Trafford

MUST have reportedly encouraged the home fans at Old Trafford to gauge support for the proposal within their own fan groups, in the belief that such gestures are most impactful when evolving organically among the fanbase, rather than being led by the club.

(Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)

Man United have previously shown class in paying respects to Jota

Such is the rivalry between the two clubs that, sadly, this fixture has been marred by tragedy chanting in the past from bigoted morons whose actions have no place in society.

However, such despicable behaviour is perpetrated by a minority, and it must be acknowledged that Manchester United acted with the utmost class and dignity with their own tribute to Jota at Anfield shortly after his death last July.

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Their captain Bruno Fernandes was a friend of Diogo from their shared involvement in the Portugal national team, and ahead of the teams’ previous fixture this term, he spoke of how ‘difficult’ it would be to play against Liverpool and not have his compatriot on the pitch.

There will always be animosity between supporters of the two clubs in terms of trying to outdo each other on the field, and beating the other is regarded among the highlights of the season for the victorious fan base.

However, any hostility should solely be kept to matters on the pitch, rather than seeping into vile chanting in the stands.

If Man United supporters show solidarity by joining in the away fans’ 20th-minute tribue to Jota at Old Trafford tomorrow, it’d represent a powerful moment of unity and would be warmly appreciated by everyone connected with Liverpool.