Preston coach: For Jota, I hope Liverpool will recover as soon as possible

 10:20pm, 14 July 2025

Preston coach Heginbotum is interviewed after a friendly match with Liverpool.

Herginbotum said: "The world's football eyes are focused on us, and we want to represent ourselves and the football community in the right way and to express our respect. I hope we have done this and hope that all those affected can feel this respect. I am proud of everyone. I want to thank Slot for coming to this game. I hope this will help them start the healing process. I hope this game will make them feel better and take a step towards a normal life. I also feel proud of everyone who is involved in planning. The fans, their behavior and the respect they show, and the players and staff, I feel that we represent more than just ourselves."

"It's hard, it's a football game, but I have to praise the players and staff of both teams. The whistle is a real game. We Don't want to risk injury, but we also have to pay tribute in the right way. We have to do it right, but it's not easy. I can't imagine how hard it is for the affected staff, players and their families."

Herginbotum added: "This has given us a new understanding of life and football. This is my first conversation with the players. I will never forget what happened when I saw the news that morning. The entire training base stopped and we brought everyone together to remind everyone that there are always complaints in life and that things are not going to be as good as they can. But when you see news like this, everything becomes clear. I think that's the message we are going to convey. It reminds us of the fragility of life, but we are also lucky to be able to engage in this great sport that we all love. This game was for Jota and for all participants."