Becks expresses shock at tragedy

FOOTBALL star David Beckham spoke of his “heartbreak” as former club Manchester United and local rivals, Manchester City, came together yesterday to pay tribute after 22 people – including children – were killed in a suspected suicide bombing in the northern English city.

Britain’s deadliest terror attack in 12 years took place when a bomb went off shortly after the end of a concert by US pop star Ariana Grande at the Manchester Arena on Monday night.

Former England captain, Beckham, who made his name as a global superstar at United after coming through the club’s youth system, expressed his condolences via an Instagram message: “Heartbreaking news from Manchester. As a father what has happened truly saddens me. My thoughts are with all of those that have been affected by this tragedy”.

A help centre was opened at City’s Etihad Stadium for those affected by the blast, while Manchester United’s club flag at their Old Trafford ground was flown at half- mast.

United said on Twitter: “We are deeply shocked by last night’s terrible events at the Manchester Arena. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those affected”.

Meanwhile, City said: “It’s with great sadness we hear of the terrible events at the Arena. Our hearts go out to all affected and to our city’s emergency services.”

Current players from both clubs also sent Twitter messages of support, with City captain Vincent Kompany saying: “I would like to express my deepest condolences to the families of the victims. It’s a sad day for the great city of Manchester. #Unity’.”

United were due to train yesterday at their Carrington practice ground ahead of travelling to Stockholm, where they will play Dutch side Ajax in the Europa League final today.

Uefa, European football’s governing body, said “tight security arrangements” had already been put in place for the final but added they had no knowledge of any direct threat to the match. — AFP

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