FORMER Cherries striker Benik Afobe has issued a heartfelt statement of thanks for the support received following the tragic death of his daughter Amora.

The 26-year-old and his family were left "devastated and heartbroken" after their two-year-old girl died last month following an infection.

Cherries wore jackets with Afobe’s name and number nine on the back ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash with Liverpool, in tribute to their former team-mate.

They also paid their respects by wearing black armbands in the top-flight clash with Crystal Palace last week.

A statement released by Afobe read: “On the behalf of Lois, my family and myself, I would like to say thank you to everyone who has messaged or prayed about the death of our baby girl Amora.

“The support we have received is something we will never forget and it means the world to us. You've all given us hope and showed the world can come together at times like this and we can all be one.

“Not many know but Amora has a one-year-old sister called Alba and we will be strong for her and Amora now lives inside her little sister's heart and will drive her to grow up and be bold and brave like her older sister was.

“We want to bounce back and show people that even when we are grieving we can make a comeback and be strong and never quit in anything you want to do or become.

“I wish I could reply to every person that has messaged me to tell everyone how much it means to us all from the bottom of our hearts.

“Thank you to every football club who posted a message and for the world for being there for us. God bless you all. Love Afobe family.”

Speaking earlier this month, Cherries boss Eddie Howe said: “The whole club, from top to bottom, is united in supporting Benik at this time and we send our best wishes to him and his family."