Support has been 'truly overwhelming' - Manning

Bristol City manager Liam Manning took over at the club in October last year

Bristol City manager Liam Manning says the support he and his family has received following the death of his baby son has been "truly overwhelming".

Manning has taken a leave of absence following the death of his son Theo, shortly after he was born earlier this month.

There have been messages of support from around the football world, with players wearing black armbands during England Under-21s' win against Azerbaijan in Bristol last week and tributes during an emotional game at the Riverside on Saturday when the Robins beat Middlesbrough.

"In what has been the most difficult time of mine and my family's life, it has been truly overwhelming the support we have received from the Bristol City supporters and the wider football family," Manning said in a statement.

"From the England Under-21s game at Ashton Gate, to the game at Middlesbrough, we have been truly touched by the response and feel proud to have been able to share Theo's name."

Bristol City and Middlesbrough players paid tribute before last weekend's game at the Riverside

Manning said he will be at Ashton Gate for Bristol City's Championship game against Leeds, which kicks off at 12:30 BST on Saturday, and will "look forward" to seeing fans.

He thanked the club's owners, technical director Brian Tinnion, his assistant Chris Hogg - who has taken interim charge - as well as the wider staff at Bristol City.

"Finally, life is extremely precious – enjoy the good times, stick together in the tough times, but most importantly make the most of the time that we have," Manning said.

"From the bottom of my heart, thank you."