Sunderland star set to make international debut on Friday evening

Sunderland midfielder Jobe Bellingham is set to make his debut for England U21s on Friday night when they face Spain.

The 19-year-old has been in superb form for the Black Cats this season, and was rewarded for his impressive displays in the Championship with a first ever call-up to the U21s last week. He has subsequently been named in the Young Lions’ starting XI this evening. In doing so, he follows in the footsteps of elder brother Jude, who represented the U21s before graduating to the senior side. The siblings were pictured together at England’s St. George’s Park training facility a few days ago following Jobe’s arrival at camp.

Jude has previously stated that it his “dream” to one day play alongside his younger brother for the national team. In an interview conducted for his acclaimed YouTube documentary series, the Real Madrid talisman said: “Because we're of a similar age and we've played together for so long - in the street and on tufts of grass - to play with my brother for England, that would be the biggest dream of my life.

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“That would mean more than any of the trophies, especially if we managed to do it on a consistent basis and play at a major tournament together, win things together. Honestly, nothing would even get close to that, nothing.”

Alongside his recognition at international level, Jobe’s performances this season have also led to a groundswell of speculation around his future at the Stadium of Light. Several high-profile clubs have been touted as admirers of the teenager, with Spanish outlet Fichajes even going as far as to suggest that German giants Borussia Dortmund are readying a bid of around £16.7 million for his services. Dortmund previously completed a deal to prise Jude away from Birmingham City in 2020.

It is suggested that the Bundesliga outfit believe that the Sunderland talent boasts a similar level of potential as his sibling, and that he would represent “a piece that could strengthen their midfield in the coming years”. England U21s kick-off their clash with Spain at 5.30pm, with viewers able to watch all of the action live and free on England’s official YouTube channel here.