Kind-hearted Xavi Simons hosts family of young footballer who tragically died in car crash at Tottenham friendly

KIND-HEARTED Xavi Simons hosted the family of a young footballer who tragically died in a car crash last month at Tottenham’s behind-closed-doors friendly against Getafe. Aspiring player George Dennis lost his life at the heartbreaking age of 11 following a road-traffic accident in North London on July 10. Tottenham star Xavi Simons with George’s brother and best friend Credit: Sun Exclusive George Dennis, 11, passed away in a car crash last month Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk Spurs star Simons learnt about the youngster’s sad passing via a post on X, from Grassroots, the UK’S No1 Grassroots Football Organisation. The post explained what happened to George, who played for youth side Ongar Juniors and was nicknamed “Twinkle Toes”, and appealed for donations to support his family following their unimaginable loss. Sign up for the Football newsletter Thank you! Simons, 23, replied to the post by writing: “George’s family is welcome to join my family and I at any upcoming Spurs game. Sending all my love.” The Dutchman, who is currently recovering from an anterior cruciate ligament injury, made good on his promise at Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Getafe. He hosted George’s mother, father, sister and cousin for the 70-minute exhibition at the club’s Hotspur Way training complex, to which no other fans or any media were permitted to attend. Simons watched the game with them and took the family on a tour of the training ground, as well as giving the children kits and boots, and flowers for George’s parents. Tottenham signed the promising Simons from German side RB Leipzig after he burst onto the scene, beating off competition from Chelsea, who were also keen on securing his signature. In a difficult first season, Simons showed glimpses of his quality, but with Spurs flirting with relegation, it was a challenging environment for him to showcase his full potential. Most read in Sport Simons is recovering from an ACL injury Credit: Getty He’s missed the club’s pre-season games due to the injury Credit: Reuters Just as he began to find his rhythm, he suffered an ACL injury that ruled him out of the final few games of last season. However, he has been working his way back to fitness and is now hoping to put the struggles of last season behind him and help Spurs challenge for a Champions League spot this coming campaign. Comment now