Why does Jobe Bellingham have his first name on his shirt? Jude’s brother doesn’t go by surname but Real Madrid star does

The Bellingham brothers are both making waves this season, but only Real Madrid star Jude is doing it with his surname on his back.

The 20-year-old England international named his younger brother as one of three players who could follow him in winning the Golden Boy award in 2024.

Bellingham's flying start to life in Spain has cemented his name as one of the best around, but his sibling is a talent in his own right.

Jobe, two years Jude's junior, signed for Sunderland from the family's boyhood club Birmingham City in the summer and has been a huge hit at the Stadium of Light ever since.

However, unlike his brother, he doesn't have Bellingham on the back of his shirt - instead partnering the No.7 shirt with his first name.

Why Jobe doesn't have Bellingham on his shirt?

The Black Cats star opted for a shirt change as he wants to create his own identity rather than being compared to his older sibling.

Jobe made his debut for Birmingham's senior side as a 16-year-old with the Bellingham name in January 2022.

However, he decided to rebrand upon his switch to Sunderland, just over a week after his brother Jude joined Real Madrid.

The move, which required approval from the English Football League, was seen as an attempt to lighten the load of the Bellingham name.

Tony Mowbray, who was Sunderland's manager at the time, explained: “I think he’s trying to create his own identity.

“He doesn’t want to live off the back of his brother’s name; he wants to be the footballer that he is and show people what he can do.”

Sunderland vs Hull: talkSPORT coverage

This Championship clash will take place on Friday, January 19.

talkSPORT 2 will have live coverage from the Stadium of Light, with kick-off scheduled for 8pm.

Darren Ambrose will be your presenter, while commentary comes from Cameron Pope and former Sunderland defender Micky Gray.