Jobe Bellingham reacts to Dan Neil transfer, he owes new Rangers star for his own success
Jobe Bellingham has given his backing to Dan Neil following the midfielder's move to Rangers, having grown close during their time at Sunderland.
Neil was confirmed as Rangers' fifth signing of a busy summer on Wednesday afternoon.
The 24-year-old spent eight years on Sunderland's books and made over 200 appearances in all competitions.
Rangers have pulled off a coup in signing Neil, who had been linked with plenty of other teams.
He was a massive fan favourite at the Stadium of Light, where he played alongside countless players in his four seasons as a first-team regular.
One of those was Bellingham, who is now thriving in the Bundesliga with Borussia Dortmund - and he owes a lot to Neil.
Dan Neil sends first message as a Rangers player
Neil follows defenders Ben Godfrey and Ross McCrorie, plus forward Lawrence Shankland and goalkeeper Ivor Pandur, in arriving at Ibrox.
That is not to mention the arrival of a new manager, too, as Derek McInnes has replaced Danny Rohl in the hotseat.
Neil said farewell to Sunderland fans in a social media post on Wednesday, before then airing his delight at joining the Gers.
"Delighted to sign for this massive football club," he wrote on Instagram. "Can’t wait to get started and looking forward to the new challenge ahead."
Bellingham, the brother of England World Cup star Jude, 'liked' the post.
A number of other current and former colleagues also commented, including Sam Greenwood, who wrote: "All the best my mate."
Neil is clearly a popular figure, as once highlighted by comments from Bellingham.
Neil part of fondest Jobe Bellingham memories
Neil played a big part in Sunderland's shock relegation to the Premier League in 2024-25.
He did not play as big a part last season, which he spent out on loan at Ipswich Town prior to his Sunderland contract expiring.
Bellingham was also part of that successful side two seasons ago, before earning himself a move to Borussia Dortmund.
He certainly has strong memories of his time playing with Neil, having said earlier this year: "When I think back on my fondest memories - and even some of the toughest days - in a Sunderland shirt, Dan was always by my side.
"In difficult moments, he never stopped trying to help me and everyone else around the team and the club. I couldn’t have asked for a better partner through both the highs and the lows.
"At times, it felt like I was playing not just for myself, but for him and his aspirations. You could see how much Sunderland meant to him, and that passion spread throughout the entire club.
"In my eyes, he was an incredible captain and he will always be a Sunderland legend."
A Sunderland legend he may be, but Neil is still young enough to write his name in Rangers folklore by matching that same attitude in the famous blue kit.