Diaz's father released 12 days after kidnapping

Luis Diaz's father has been released, 12 days after he was kidnapped by the guerrilla rebel group National Liberation Army.

Luis Manuel Diaz was taken hostage on October 28 when he was driving in La Guajira with his wife Cilenis Marulanda, who was freed that evening.

The Colombian Football Federation confirmed the release of the Liverpool star's father on Thursday.

They wrote in a statement: "The Colombian football federation thanks the national government, the military forces and the national police, as well as all the institutions and officials that made the release of Luis Manuel Diaz, father of our player Luis Diaz, possible.

"Football as a sporting discipline symbolizes talent, dedication, teamwork and the intrinsic values ​​of human beings. In Colombia it must continue to be a benchmark for entertainment, healthy competition, unity and joy.

"Therefore, we insist on the need to maintain this activity, as well as those who are involved in it, in the sporting and administrative part and their families, outside of any scenario other than sports.

"Behind a ball, the dreams and illusions of boys and girls, young people, women, men and adult soccer players, their loved ones and an entire country roll.

"Football is passion in peace. Let no one ever think of attacking that reality again."

Diaz, 26, returned to the Liverpool matchday squad for last Sunday's 1-1 draw at Luton after missing the 3-0 victory over Nottingham Forest on October 29.

The ex-Porto winger scored a stoppage-time equaliser at Kenilworth Road following his introduction from the bench and then revealed a message on his shirt which translated read 'Freedom For Papa'.

Diaz was named in the starting XI for this evening's Europa League tie at Toulouse.

The Premier League club said: "We are delighted by the news of Luis Diaz's father's safe return and we thank all those involved in securing his release."