Wolves’ players are planning to pay tribute to Mario Lemina’s dad following the announcement of his tragic death. Lemina’s team-mates will wear black armbands when they play Everton on Saturday afternoon at Molineux Stadium.
A statement from the club confirmed the sad news: “Our hearts go out to Mario Lemina after the passing of his father yesterday morning. The whole pack send their love and sympathy to Mario and his family. Mario’s teammates will wear black armbands today in honour of his father’s memory.”
In response to the announcement, the Toffees tweeted: “Incredibly sad news. Our thoughts are with Mario and his family during this time.”
Lemina was in fine form last weekend as he scored the opener during a 2-1 win over Chelsea. The 30-year-old was given the Man of the Match award for his impressive display, which he dedicated to his father, who was in hospital at the time.
Fighting back tears, he said in his post-match interview with Sky Sports: “I’m getting used to scoring now so I need a signature celebration. I want to pass a message to my dad who is in hospital. Keep pushing and we are all together.”
Lemina is expected to miss the Everton game after flying back to France to be with his family. Wolves boss Gary O’Neil confirmed that the Gabonese international didn’t attend training on Friday due to a “family issue”.
“Mario has gone back to France to attend a family issue, I don’t want to speak about it too much as it’s not my place,” said O’Neil during his pre-match press conference ahead of Wolves’ clash with Everton.
“Mario didn’t train today and that’s all I can say on it. Around tomorrow it’s too early to say, my only thoughts are with Mario and what he needs at this moment. Some things are more important than football matches.”
