Birmingham City will retire the number 22 shirt following Jude Bellingham's transfer to Borussia Dortmund.
The 17-year-old, who has played 44 times for the Championship side since making his senior debut in August last year, made his final appearance against Derby County on Wednesday night ahead of his £26 million move to the Bundesliga.
And to reward his legacy at the club, Birmingham have decided it would be fitting to retire the 22 shirt number to "remember one of our own and to inspire others."
In a statement on their official website, the club said: "Prior to his last game the club held a private celebration for people close to Jude's development,"
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"It was an opportunity for all to come together and to recognise the help and support Jude has had from all at Blues, notably the Academy, and to provide him with another fitting farewell memory.
"Throughout the elongated transfer process that eventually made Jude the world's most expensive 17-year-old, he remained focused and totally committed to the Blues cause, which showed the importance of having a supportive family behind him."
Following his final appearance against Derby last night, Bellingham gave an emotional interview after the full-time whistle.
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"My family have been massive and although they're not from the area they've come to love the club," he added.
"They handled everything and they were really adamant that the Club got what they deserved. I've been coming here since I was seven, so it was natural I shed a few tears after the game.
"But Dortmund is the best place for me to carry on my development and I am optimistic for the future."
Thoughts on Birmingham retiring the number 22 shirt to a teenager who has made just 44 appearances for the club?
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Let us know in the comments.
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Football News, Football, Jude Bellingham
