Billy Hogan's message of support to victims of Southport attack

Speaking in Philadelphia, Hogan said: “[They were] tragic, horrific events that took place in Southport. As a father myself who has got a nine-year-old daughter, I can’t imagine what those families are going through.

“I know we’re all the way over here in the USA on our pre-season tour, but I can tell you that everybody at the club has been deeply impacted by what is going on back at home.

“I just want to make sure that everybody knows we’re sending our thoughts and prayers and love to the victims, to the families, to their friends and to the wider Southport community.

“There are a number of different ways we tried to show support and respect. I’d like to thank Phil Thompson and Robbie Fowler for representing the club yesterday and laying a wreath at the scene. During training yesterday, the team paused, the staff and the players, to again show our respect.

“Tonight, before the game here in Philadelphia, the players, staff and supporters – along with Arsenal – are going to again show our support and respect with a moment’s silence before the match.

“It’s really just our way of trying to send all thoughts and prayers and love to those that have been impacted by these absolutely horrific events.”