Liverpool to play Everton tune in tribute to murdered boy

LONDON, Aug 28 (Reuters) Liverpool are to pay an unprecedented tribute to murdered 11-year-old Rhys Jones, a devoted Everton fan, by playing their city rivals' anthem before their Champions League match against Toulouse today.

The schoolboy was a season-ticket holder at Everton but Liverpool FC said they would play the tune ''Johnny Todd'' which usually greets their city rivals as they take to the pitch.

''Chief executive Rick Parry spoke with Rhys's family who agreed they would be delighted if the Reds paid tribute to their son's memory in such a fitting way,'' a statement on Liverpool's Web site (www.liverpoolfc.tv) said.

The Liverpool players will wear black armbands and there will be a minute's applause before the third qualifying round, second-leg match at Anfield. Liverpool hold a 1-0 lead from the first leg.

Rhys died last Wednesday after being shot in the neck on his way home from football practice. Yesterday the Everton first-team squad laid tributes at a shrine that has developed where he was killed.

REUTERS BJR RAI2019