Bristol City manager Liam Manning made an emotional return to the touchline during this afternoon’s (Saturday, October 26) goalless draw against Leeds. The Robins fans welcomed him back after the tragic passing of his newborn son Theo with a warm applause before kick off.
The words ‘Fly High Theo’ were also produced by fans in the stands at Ashton Gate as they paid an emotional tribute to Manning. The large banners were organised by Section 82 based in the east end corner of the South Stand.
The fans were reportedly in the stadium at 6.30am this morning to arrange the tribute. Manning walked around the Ashton Gate pitch after the final whistle to thank the fans, and began to cry when he applauded the Section 82 supporters in the corner of the ground.
A spokesperson for Section 82 previously said: “We invite all fans in attendance to come together for a heartfelt display in honour of the Manning family and their loved ones following the tragic news this week, of the unimaginable loss of their recently born son, Theo.
““In this time of profound grief, we want to show our love, support and solidarity. Therefore our aim is to create a visual tribute that captures the outpouring of love and condolence shared by City fans, and indeed the entire football community, in support of the Manning family during this unthinkably difficult time.”