MATT DOHERTY paid tribute to Benik Afobe’s tragic daughter by taking off and kissing a black armband after netting Wolves’ equaliser at Sheffield United.
Every Wolves player wore the band after former team-mate Afobe’s two-year-old girl Amora died of a severe infection on Friday night.
Bristol City loanee Benik Afobe announced Amora’s death on Sunday morning with a statement on Twitter
Amora, the daughter of Benif Afoke and his wife Lois Smith, died following ‘serious complications’ to an infection she had suffered
Republic of Ireland right-back Doherty ran off in the 64th minute to celebrate his scoring header with home fans before removing his armband and holding it to his lips with both hands.
It was a moment of reflection that summed up the football world’s response to Amora’s death
Bristol City loanee striker Afobe who had two spells with Wolves, announced his sad news with a Twitter statement on Sunday morning.
The 26-year-old said his and wife Lois Smith’s daughter died of “severe complications”.
‘DEEPLY SORRY’
The statement read: “It is with an extremely heavy heart that the Afobe family have today confirmed the devastating news that their first child, their beloved daughter Amora, 2, passed away late on Friday evening.
“Amora was taken to hospital for treatment after unexpectedly developing a severe infection.
“Unfortunately she then suffered a number of serious complications and, despite doctors doing absolutely everything that they possibly could, Amora passed away peacefully with the love of her family by her side.
“The entire family have been left totally devastated and heartbroken, and would like to ask that their privacy is respected at this incredibly difficult time.”
Bristol City, parent club Stoke, Arsenal and Afobe’s one-time Bournemouth team-mate were among those to post.
Ex-England midfielder Wilshere posted on Instagram: “Benik, my brother, my words will never mean enough to express how deeply sorry I am for your loss, and I know that no words will heal the pain in your hearts right now, just know I am here for you, Lois and your family always.condolences.”
In his statement, Afobe says that his daughter passed away with ‘the love of her family by her side’
