Footballers pay tribute to Rhys

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The squad, led by their captain, Phil Neville, stood with their heads bowed and in silence at the makeshift shrine outside the Fir Tree pub in Croxteth, Liverpool.

England striker Andy Johnson, along with international stars James McFadden, Tim Cahill and Mikel Arteta, laid a signed number 8 shirt and a pair of boots.

A wreath in the shape of a blue and white football bore the message: "With deepest sympathy to the family of Rhys from all at Everton Football Club."

Praising the courage and strength of the Jones family, Neville said: "They have been very strong. It would have been one of the hardest days of their lives. We all have families and love our children. All our love is with the Jones family at the moment."

He added: "We all feel very sad. We are here today to pay our respects and appeal to anyone to come out and give information about the person who did this terrible thing. Rhys was an 11-year-old lad and massive Evertonian. We just hope this thing never happens again."

Defender Alan Stubbs said the shooting of little Rhys had devastated the city of Liverpool. He added: "What's happened is a tragic, tragic event. Anyone with any information to help the police, please come forward."

The players had signed touching messages on their shirts and boots delivered to the scene. The one from Spaniard Arteta read: "To Rhys, see you in heaven."

Australian Cahill's boots bore the message: "Lots of love" - the same message Johnson wrote on his shirt. Defender Joseph Yobo's number 4 shirt was signed: "To Rhys, God bless, Joseph."

A massive bouquet of lilies rested against an Everton shirt and carried the message: "To Rhys, such a tragic loss, rest in peace with the angels. All the players and staff at Blackburn Rovers Football Club."