Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has responded to the “devastating” death of Liverpool player Diogo Jota. The PM was asked about the death of Portugal international in a car crash when he launched Labour’s 10-year plan for the NHS.

Sir Keir said: “This is devastating news and I’m sure I speak for everyone in saying our first thoughts are going to be with his family and with his friends in particular. There are millions of Liverpool fans but also football fans, [who] will also be shocked by this.

“It is devastating. It is really important we bear in mind just how difficult a period this will be for his friends and for his family.”

Tributes to Jota have also been paid in the House of Commons.

The footballer’s brother, Andre Silva, 26, also died.

Luis Montenegro, the prime minister of Portugal, said: “The news of the death of Diogo Jota, an athlete who greatly honoured Portugal’s name, and his brother is unexpected and tragic.”

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said in an online message: “I was shocked and incredibly saddened to hear the heartbreaking news about Diogo Jota while here in this city. My thoughts and condolences are with his family and friends, and everyone at Liverpool Football Club.”

Shadow Culture Secretary Stuart Andrew said: “This is deeply sad news, and a huge loss. My heart goes out to his family, his fans and the whole football community.”

Conservative Shadow Leader of the Commons Jesse Norman said: “What a wildly talented, endlessly creative and high energy player he was.”

Former Labour shadow chancellor John McDonnell said: “This has shocked every Liverpool supporter to their core.”