Liverpool’s typically lively Colombian forward, Luis Diaz, appeared somber as he sat on the substitute’s bench during his team’s Premier League match against Luton on Sunday.
Understandably so, given that his father remains in captivity by Colombian rebels.
Despite the personal anguish, the 26-year-old not only expressed his desire to be part of Jurgen Klopp’s squad for the game but also entered the pitch and scored a dramatic last-minute equalizer.
Read Also: Premier League: Arsenal Lose to Newcastle as Manchester City Secure an Easy Win Against Bournemouth
Not surprisingly,there was no celebration this time. Instead, Diaz raised his shirt to reveal a white undershirt bearing the words in black: “Libertad Para Papa” (Freedom For Dad).
Despite the fact that his goal was achieved with a remarkable header and had shattered the hearts of Luton fans, they too joined Liverpool supporters in a wave of applause for Diaz as he left the pitch.
Subcribe to Switch TV for more exciting content
“We’re supporting him and feeling his pain but for him it’s a different level,” said Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson.
Colombia’s National Liberation Army (ELN) guerrillas have announced their intention to release Luis Manuel Diaz, just as they had done with Diaz’s mother.
This is a development is eagerly awaited by both the player and the club.
“A wonderful moment. But it doesn’t change the situation. The most important thing is that his father gets released,” Klopp said of the goal in the fifth minute of added time.
“We knew he would be a threat. We didn’t know how long he would play because he only had a few sessions with the team. But that is not the most important part today. He scored the goal but we need to see some improvement in Colombia,” Klopp added.
