Benfica star Joao Neves reduced to tears as fans chant in support of 19-year-old following mum’s death in Europa League

BENFICA star Joao Neves was reduced to tears after a touching tribute from his fans at the Estadio da Luz tonight.

The 19-year-old’s mother died last week after a long battle with cancer and the midfielder was emotional as soon as the final whistle blew.

Reuters

Neves was emotional at the final whistle[/caption]

Reuters

And thanked fans for their support[/caption]

The Benfica faithful showed their support for Neves by chanting his name at the end of the game.

And the support of his fans brought the young midfielder to tears.

Benfica drew 0-0 with Toulouse on the night, which was enough to see them advance through to the next round.

Neves has played 38 times in all competitions for Benfica this year, despite being just 19 years old.

He has already been capped three times by Portugal.

A combative deep-lying midfielder in the Rodri mould, Neves was linked with a big money move to the Premier League in the summer and January.

United were interested in the midfielder last summer, although the emergence of Kobbie Mainoo in his position may see their interest in him cool.

He has also attracted the interest of Arsenal as they look to replace Thomas Partey in the summer.

Neves was thrust into the Benfica first team last year when he was just 18 to replace the outgoing Enzo Fernandez, who signed for Chelsea in a £107million deal.

Benfica were playing in the play-off of the Europa League after dropping down from the Champions League this year.

They will find out their opponents in the round of 16 in March.