Scotland captain Andy Robertson has spoken about the passing of Diogo Jota for the first time, admitting he may never fully come to terms with losing his dear friend and Liverpool teammate.
Portuguese star Jota and his brother Andre Silva were killed in a car accident in northern Spain in July.
Numbed with shock, Robertson flew to Jota’s home town of Gondomar for the funeral as the football world tried to come to terms with what happened.
Reflecting on the tragic incident, the 31-year-old expressed, ‘It was the toughest experience we’ve faced. It was unexpected and shocking. Primarily, it was devastating for his family, but it also deeply affected us as a group.
‘In those moments, football becomes insignificant. It reminds us of the true priorities in life, like cherishing time with your loved ones because the future is uncertain.
Great pals Diogo Jota and Andy Robertson enjoy a chat during a Liverpool training session back in 2022
Andy Robertson, far right, and Virgil Van Dijk carry floral tributes for Jota at his funeral
Happier times as Robertson and Jota celebrate FA Cup triumph with Liverpool team-mates in 2022
‘Like I say, it’s the toughest thing we’ll ever go through. Losing one of my closest mates, for me, was hugely difficult.
‘It’s something we might never fully overcome, but it’s a part of our journey now. We’ll cherish the memories we shared and keep him in our thoughts and hearts. That’s the most we can do moving forward.’
Robertson is out of contract next summer and was linked with moves away from Anfield towards the end of last season.
Adamant that he had made up his mind to stay on Merseyside before the tragedy, he added: ‘It didn’t influence my decision.
‘The decision was already made before the tragedy, but I knew in that moment that the club needed me.
‘I know I am one of the leaders in the team and I have obviously been made vice-captain now. It’s going to take a lot this season.
‘Beyond football, as teammates, we’ll need support throughout the season. We’ve already faced challenges, like the emotional return to playing in front of fans and attending a team-mate’s funeral, which is overwhelming to acknowledge.
‘The team leaders have a crucial role in supporting not just the club but also Diogo’s family during this incredibly tough time.’
Jota and Robertson team up to quell the threat of Kevin De Bruyne during a Premier League clash
Andy Robertson speaks about Jota at Scotland’s press conference on Thursday
‘It won’t get easier, but maybe we can numb the pain a little bit as time goes on. It’s up to us leaders to try and guide us through that.’
The season has started with Roberson playing second fiddle to Milos Kerkez, the first time since the Scot’s second season at Liverpool that he hasn’t been an automatic pick.
Confident he can regain his place in Slot’s side, he said: ‘It hasn’t been awkward, that’s not the word I’d use. It’s been difficult for different reasons.
‘I made a decision and I still believe if I keep doing what I’m doing I’ll play a lot of games for club and country.
‘That’s my main focus this season. When called upon, to produce as well as I can for Liverpool and Scotland.
‘Hopefully, (next) summer I’ll be heading to a World Cup with a couple more trophies in my back pocket.’
