Adam Johnson's heartbroken teammates pay tribute at first match since star's tragic death

Nottingham Panthers have paid tribute to Adam Johnson in an emotional first game since his tragic death on the ice.

Johnson passed away aged 29 after his neck was slashed by an opponents’ ice skate on October 28. South Yorkshire Police are still investigating the circumstances around his death, but the Panthers returned to the ice in a friendly match against Manchester Storm on Saturday night.

The Panthers said the game at the Motorpoint Arena was held "to celebrate the life of Adam and the remarkable person he was". It gave 10,000 fans the chance to pay tribute in a minute's applause in the 47th minute – a reference to Johnson’s No.47 jersey, which will be retired by the club.

Before the start of the match players from both teams gathered in a circle on the ice and banged their sticks on the ice while the crowd clapped and chanted his name. There was also a huge sign above the rink displaying Johnson's face and proclaiming him as “Forever Our 47”. Johnson's heartbroken family tuned into the game from their home in the US state of Minnesota.

Here are some photos from the emotional evening in Nottingham.