Jobe Bellingham, the Sunderland midfielder and younger brother of senior England star Jude, has received his first call-up to the England Under-21 squad for matches against Spain and the Netherlands. His selection comes as a reward for his contribution in propelling the Black Cats to the top of the Sky Bet Championship table.
The 19-year-old has represented England at every age group from under-16 to under-20. Bellingham will miss Sunderland’s Championship clash with Coventry City tomorrow due to suspension. He is still serving a three-match ban for his red card in the goalless draw at Queens Park Rangers last weekend.
Another fresh face in the 24-man squad is 18-year-old Southampton midfielder Tyler Dibling, who has been impressing with his Premier League performances this season.
Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite makes a return to U21s level after being omitted from the senior squad. The England team will head to Cadiz to play Spain on November 15, followed by a match against the Netherlands in Almere on November 18.
Having already secured their place in next summer’s European Championship finals, it will be England’s final matches under interim head coach Ben Futcher before Lee Carsley resumes his duties.
