Reading FC to host family of stabbed England mascot
The family of a teenager from Hampshire who was stabbed on holiday in Greece will be guests of Reading FC at the club's first match of the season.
Former England football mascot Robert Sebbage, a Reading season ticket holder, was on holiday in Zakynthos with friends when he was attacked.
A taxi driver, 21, has been charged with the 18-year-old's murder.
The funeral of the Tadley teenager was held at St Mary's Church in Basingstoke on Thursday.
Following the attack, Reading FC's chairman Sir John Madejski wrote to Mr Sebbage's family on behalf of the club to express his sincere condolences, and offered to help in any way possible.
A spokesman for the club said the family and friends of Mr Sebbage had "come together" in a manner "nothing short of impeccable."
Writing in his programme notes for the game against Millwall on Saturday, Reading FC's manager Brian McDermott said, "I know that today the East Stand will be missing one of its own in Robert Sebbage, our young season ticket holder who passed away over the summer.
"To lose someone at that age just cannot be put into words.
"His family are guests of the club today, and I want them to know they have an even bigger family of support around them with every single Reading fan, player and staff member there for them whenever they need us."
The club will not be holding a minute's silence.