Football world shows support

Footballers from Manchester United and Manchester City have expressed their shock at the terror attack in the city.

Wayne Rooney posted to his Twitter account: “Devastating news this morning. Thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.”

Rooney’s team-mate Michael Carrick also posted to Twitter, writing: “My thoughts and prayers go out to all those effected by the sickening attack that happened here in Manchester last night.”

Former Old Trafford midfielder Cristiano Ronaldo shared an image of the Union Jack with “Manchester” written across it on Twitter, while David Beckham did the same on Instagram.

City captain Vincent Kompany was among those tweeting. He wrote: “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.”

City’s Raheem Sterling tweeted: “Shocking events for this great city. My thoughts and prayers are with the families.”

United midfielder Daley Blind also shared a message, writing: “Can’t believe what happened last night, my thoughts go out to all those affected. #PrayForManchester”.

United face Ajax in the Europa League final this evening. The Dutch club tweeted: “From Amsterdam with love to Manchester. Our thoughts are with the victims and the loved ones of those affected.”