Liverpool vice-captain James Milner has shared a heartfelt tribute to a "special boy" who died after being struck by lightning.
Nine-year-old Jordan Banks was playing on a football field off School Road in Blackpool yesterday when the tragedy happened.
The young Liverpool FC fan was rushed to hospital at around 5pm with "serious injuries" but died a short time later.
Thousands of people from across the country have paid tribute to Jordan since the news broke last night.
Sharing a tribute of his own to Jordan on social media this evening, James Milner wrote: "A special boy taken far too soon. RIP Jordan, YNWA."
The Liverpool midfielder sent a special message to Jordan, who was nicknamed 'a mini Milner', back in January, after he ran a marathon in honour of a close family member who took his own life in 2018.
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In the touching message at the time, Milner said: "Hi Jordan, how's it going? I've heard that you're doing an amazing thing in raising funds for counselling in honour of your uncle Reece. I think running a marathon is an incredible feat, and it's difficult with people doing it with legs a lot bigger than yours, but to do 30 miles is incredible.
"I heard you get called mini Milner because you're very determined, so that's an amazing skill to have, never ever give up and I hear you've been out in all weather fighting in the cold and the rain, so you keep going, and keep doing what you're doing mate.
"Just remember you'll never walk alone, all the boys are behind you and I'll send you a couple of shirts - one for yourself for doing an amazing thing and another that you can hopefully raise a bit of money from and put it towards all the money you're raising.
"Well done bud, it's an amazing achievement and you should be very proud."
Tributes have poured in for the youngster, who was a pupil at Stanley Primary School in Blackpool, across social media.
In a statement, Jordan's family said: “Yesterday our worlds stopped. We lost the brightest star our beautiful boy Jordan.
"His laugh, that infectious smile, golden curls, he was our everything. Wise beyond his years, caring, considerate, generous and so loving.
"Our love is endless. Goodnight beautiful boy.
"We thank you all for your kind words and support but as a family ask that you respect our wishes and privacy.”
