The Greater Western Sydney GIANTS will join Port Adelaide in paying tribute to John McCarthy before their clash at AAMI Stadium this Saturday.

The GIANTS players will wear black armbands and join Port players and officials in observing a minute’s silence before the match. The GIANTS cheer squad has also prepared a special message on the club’s banner as a mark of respect.

GIANTS Chairman Tony Shepherd said the whole football community was affected by John McCarthy’s passing. “Our thoughts will be with John’s family, his friends, teammates and the entire club on this occasion,” he said.

“I want to acknowledge Port’s Chairman David Koch, CEO Keith Thomas and the Port Adelaide Football Club for what they have done to make this an occasion to remember for all football fans and John’s family.”

The 22-year-old played 21 games with Port Adelaide in 2012, adding to the 18 he played with Collingwood Football Club before being recruited to Alberton at the end of 2011.