The latest on kidnapping of Luis Diaz's father as football world shows support
By
Ewan Murray
Ewan Murray
Liverpool's 3-0 victory over Nottingham Forest on Sunday afternoon was massively overshadowed by the terrible news about Luis Diaz's father.
The Colombian winger's parents were kidnapped in Barrancas this weekend and while Diaz's mother has been safely rescued by police, his father is still missing.
Diaz was understandably absent for Liverpool's weekend encounter, but was in the thoughts of everyone at the club. Diogo Jota held up a shirt with the number seven's name on the back after scoring the opener and there has been an outpouring of support on social media.
READ MORE: Jurgen Klopp reveals reaction to Liverpool players' Luis Diaz tribute
Colombian authorities remain on the lookout for Diaz's father, with a £40,000 reward for anybody who provides information that helps lead to his return. However, as of yet, his whereabouts are still unknown.
President of Colombia Gustavo Petro has enlisted the aid of the army in the rescue mission, who will work alongside over 100 police officers to ensure Diaz's father's swift return.
There are concerns that Diaz Snr has been taken over the border to Venezuela, however, no individual or group have taken responsibility for the kidnapping so far.
Liverpool put out a statement on Sunday morning, showing their unconditional support for Diaz. It read: "Liverpool Football Club can confirm it is aware of an ongoing situation involving the family of Luis Diaz in Colombia.
"It is our fervent hope that the matter is resolved safely and and at the earliest possible opportunity. In the meantime, the player's welfare will continue to be our immediate priority."
Since then, there has been a swell of support for Diaz. Colombia's national football team posted a plea for the safe return of his father on social media, stating: "We ask the captors of Luis Manuel Díaz, father of Luis Diaz, to release him now, without conditions.
"Football is peace. Lucho, we are with you. Colombia is with you."Plenty of Diaz's current and former teammates have taken to social media as well, including the likes of Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister, Harvey Elliott and Fabinho.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino also offered his support, saying on Instagram: "On behalf of FIFA and the world football community, I would like to convey our support to Luis Diaz, his family and his friends in these difficult times."
Colombia's women's team also held up a shirt with Diaz's name and number on prior to their game with USA.
The thoughts of Liverpool and everyone involved with the club are with Diaz in what has been a harrowing few days for the 26-year-old.
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