ASTON VILLA HAVE dedicated their win over Sunderland to Jody O’Reilly, the Irishman who tragically died in a hit-and-run car accident just before Christmas.
Speaking to reporters yesterday, Paul Lambert paid tribute to the Kildare native and big Aston Villa fan who moved to the West Midlands in 2010:
“I’d like to dedicate the victory over Sunderland to Jody O’Reilly, who lost his life in tragic circumstances before he was due to come and support the team against Manchester United just before Christmas,” Lambert said.
“I wasn’t immediately aware of what happened, but as soon as I found out I made contact with one of his closest friends to pass on my best wishes and to let the family know they were in my thoughts and prayers.
“As a father of four I can’t imagine what Jody’s family are going through.”
Villa also previously organised a minute’s applause for O’Reilly, following a request from his friends.
