Mark Bellingham receives England over-50s call-up for Ireland clash

Mark Bellingham, father of Real Madrid and England midfielder Jude Bellingham, has been called up to represent England’s over-50s side for a clash against Ireland.

According to the Daily Mail, the former non-league striker earned the selection after enjoying a remarkable playing career in which he scored more than 700 goals.

Bellingham established a reputation as one of non-league football’s most prolific goalscorers, representing more than 20 clubs across the West Midlands during a career that spanned several decades.

His former clubs included Stourbridge, Leamington, Halesowen Town and Sutton Coldfield. He famously scored 61 goals for Stourbridge during the 2005-06 campaign.

Away from football, Bellingham worked as a police sergeant while helping guide the careers of his sons, Jude and Jobe, who have both represented England. Jude has previously credited watching his father play non-league football with inspiring his own love for the game.

The over-50s call-up offers Mark another opportunity to showcase his goalscoring instincts, years after establishing himself as a celebrated figure in non-league football.