Tributes are paid to the News Letter journalist Henry McDonald at his favourite football teams Cliftonville and Everton

Henry, 57, was a passionate follower of the two teams, who on Saturday repaid that affection.

At Solitude in North Belfast, there was a minute’s applause for the much loved journalist before the Danske Bank Premiership match against Glentoran, which Cliftonville won 2-1.

At Goodison Park in Liverpool, an image of Henry was beamed up on the big screen at half-time during the English Premiere League game against Aston Villa, which the visitors won 2-0.

Henry, who grew up in Belfast, was a devoted Everton fan and had supported Cliftonville since the 1970s. He recounted some of his experiences in his memoir ‘Colours’.

After his death, the club said: “Cliftonville Football Club is deeply saddened to learn of the death of long-time supporter Henry McDonald.

“A respected journalist and author of some repute, Henry was a regular face at Solitude across many decades and, indeed, did not let his recent battle with illness keep him away from supporting his beloved Reds.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to Henry’s family and many friends at this very difficult time. May he rest in peace.”

Also on Saturday afternoon, Henry’s body was removed from O’Kane’s funeral home in Donegall Street to his house in the Markets are of the city centre, where a wake was held.