Leicester City star Jamie Vardy and his wife Rebekah were spotted weeping today as they paid tribute to the club at a memorial placed by bereaved fans following his death in an automobile accident.
The couple, who previously referred to the late player as ‘a member of their extended family’, both wiped tears from their eyes as they went by the vast quantity of floral tributes and club shirts devoted to the years spent together at the club.
In a memorial posted on Instagram on Tuesday alongside a photo of playmate at the Vardys’ wedding, Rebekah wrote: ‘You may be gone from our eyes but never from our hearts….yesterday we lost a member of our extended family, a man who meant the world to us and so many others.
‘He was the nicest person with the largest heart! Irreplaceable…. Thank you for everything you’ve done for us. Devastated and heartbroken… may you rest in peace.’
The football club opened a book of condolences at the stadium this morning, and a steady stream of fans had arrived since the early hours.
Fans continue to leave mementos, such as flowers, scarves, and jerseys, at the ever-expanding shrine that now runs down one side of the stadium.
Meanwhile, Jamie posted his own tribute on Instagram, saying, ‘I’m struggling to find the appropriate words….but to me you are legend, an extraordinary man with the largest heart, the soul of Leicester City Football Club.
“Thank you for the fun we had together, my family and our club. I will genuinely miss you. May you rest in peace, #theboss.
The injured Leicester midfielder was also among the players who paid respect outside the stadium this morning.
Fans were also quick to sign the book of condolences to commemorate the memories he helped build for the team and city.
Among the letters in the book, one read: “A grateful and grieving city thanks you for all you have done for our city and our club.” R.I.P. Always x’
Another wrote: ‘To the dream maker. Thank you so much for everything you’ve done for our excellent club. You’ll always remain in my thoughts. R.I.P. xxxxx.
Another commented, ‘You brought so many smiles to the club and the city, particularly mine. You touched so many people’s hearts. Mine feels broken. Thank you for providing me the most memorable day of my life, which will live on in our hearts and souls forever. Rest in peace, Boss.’
