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James Milner has chosen to switch to Brighton’s number 20 shirt for the new season as a personal tribute to his former Liverpool teammate, Diogo Jota, who died tragically last month.
The 28 -year -old Portugal International died in a car accident in June with his brother, Andre Silva, only a few weeks after helping Liverpool ensuring the title of the Premier League.
In response to his death, Liverpool confirmed that the iconic jota shirt no. 20, worn throughout its five -year spell in Anfield, will be withdrawn permanently.
Three of these seasons spent with Milner before the experienced English midfielder started from Brighton in 2023.
Prior to the 2025-26 campaign, Brighton’s teammate Carlos Baleba decided to take the 17th shirt, leaving 20 available.
Milner, who has previously brought the number 6 since he reached the southern coast, saw an opportunity to make a gesture of respect.
“Once I felt that Carlos sought to change his number and 20 was available, he wanted to make it a mark of respect and pay tribute to Diogo Jota,” Milner said in a message published in Brighton’s X.
“He was an incredible player I was lucky enough to play and also a great friend.
“It will be a great honor to bring his number to the Premier League this year.”
The veteran midfielder, whose contract was renewed by Brighton in June and now runs beyond his 40th anniversary, was one of the several former companions who traveled to Portugal in July to attend the Jota funeral.
Jota’s passage has left a lasting brand in the world of football, causing multiple tributes. #
Liverpool has already revealed the plans to erect a commemorative statue of the striker in Anfield, while the wolves have introduced him to his fame.
Clubs and fans across the country have also respected their moments of silence and commemorative banners.
