Liverpool star Fabinho's father has passed away, with the midfielder's wife Rebeca Tavares confirming the sad news on social media
The 27-year-old received news of his father Joao Roberto Tavares' passing and missed Thursday’s training session at the AXA Centre before Rebeca announced it on Friday morning.
Writing to her nearly 175,000 followers, Mrs. Tavares said: "Morning y’all. For those who are asking on Instagram …. Fabinho's father has passed. He will be missed."
A picture and further message accompanied her post, which read: "Father-in-law, you will always be remembered for this smile and your passion for the things of the kingdom!!"
"I thank God for the privilege of knowing you. Your grandchildren will know the exact grandfather they had. I love you. I'll take good care of [Fabinho]."
Hundreds of Reds fans replied to Rebeca's message on Twitter to offer condolences to the family.
Liverpool were without Alisson Becker for the win against Sheffield United last season after the sudden passing of his father, Jose, was announced in Brazil.
It's likely that Fabinho will be given similar compassionate leave as a result, allowing him to sit out the visit from Sean Dyche’s Clarets on Saturday lunchtime.
Since the news emerged, Jurgen Klopp has spoken about Fabinho, saying in his pre-match press conference: "It's a private situation. Fab is here and doing what he's able to do. We all feel for him and are with him."