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Former Middlesbrough goalkeeping coach Leo Percovich has thanked the club's fans for their support after the car crash tragedy that claimed the life of his two young daughters.

The popular Uruguayan has posted a video on his Facebook page, thanking Boro's fans and club staff for "supporting our family and standing by our side" in the aftermath of the devastating accident in Brazil.

Leo's two daughters, Antonella and Valentina, aged five and 10, both died in the crash, which happened in the Santos Dumont region of Zona da Mata in the early hours of December 17.

Leo's wife and the couple's son, Pietro, were also injured, though both are now thankfully on the mend.

Boro fans showed their support for Leo and his family on social media after the accident and also lit up the Riverside in tribute during Boxing Day's game against Bolton, while also singing the name of the Uruguayan coach. Thousands of pounds was also raised to try and help fund medical and funeral costs.

(Image: Katie Lunn)

In his video thanking Boro's fans, Leo says: "After this horrible tragedy that cost the life of my two daughters, we thank Middlesbrough Football Club, former workmates, friends and supporters for the lights when you honoured my girls.

"You supported our family, shared our pain and were standing right by our side.

"I hope one day soon we can give you a true hug from our hearts. Everywhere we go, everyone we know, we are Middlesbrough."

Once fully recovered, Leo hopes to travel back to Teesside with his family to show his appreciation to Middlesbrough fans.