Tranmere pay tribute to supporter Martin Decker at Wembley

The club's players donned black armbands over their traditional white strip in memory of dedicated supporter Martin Decker from Prenton.

Rovers fans watching the Papa John's Trophy Final at home on television noticed the armbands and queried what the gesture was in aid of, before Tranmere's co-owner Nicola Palios confirmed the reasons behind it via social media.

Responding to supporters, she said: "It was in memory of one of our long term supporters, Martin Decker, who was tragically murdered last week."

Last Tuesday, Rover's chairman Mark Palios paid his own tribute to Mr Decker, who he knew well.

He said on Twitter: "Desperately sad to hear of the tragic passing of Martin. A great Rovers fan but also went to St Anselms with me. A true gentle gentleman. RIP mate."

Martin Decker was a Tranmere Rovers season ticket holder

In a separate message, Tranmere Rovers said: "Everyone at Tranmere is shocked and saddened to hear of the sudden and tragic passing of long time season ticket holder Martin Decker.

"Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this very difficult time."

Liam Feeney, wearing his black arm band at Wembley. Photo: Phil Bryan, Pro Sports Images

The 69-year-old, who had given many years of duty to the Crown Prosecution Service, was found dead in his own home by his family on Sunday, March 7.

A 23-year-old man has since been arrested and charged with Mr Decker's murder.

Meanwhile, a campaign to sell 'virtual tickets' for Sunday's behind-closed-doors cup final has been well received by supporters.

The initiative has helped raise over £40,000 for the Tranmere in the Community charity, which supports local people who are struggling through the pandemic with food poverty, mental health and isolation.

To buy a virtual ticket and help the initiative, click here.