Diogo Jota’s No.21 shirt for Portugal has been taken by Ruben Neves.
Roberto Martinez confirmed the swap in his first press conference since the former Liverpool striker tragically lost his life in a car accident.
“He’s the one who should talk about it,” Martinez said.
“He had a very close relationship with Diogo Jota, it was a decision made by Diogo Jota’s family.”
Neves, currently of Al Hilal, was one of Jota’s closest friends in football and was present at Wolves’ first home game of the season where a tribute was paid to his family.
The pair played together 174 times with Portugal, Wolves and Porto.
At Liverpool Jota’s No.20 has been retired, while former Reds teammate James Milner took the number at Brighton as a tribute.
Further discussing Jota, Martinez said: “We need to prepare tactically and physically, but the emotional aspect is also important.
“Diogo Jota’s absence will be a source of unity and motivation. This is the first training camp without Diogo.”
“It’s a human aspect, but I think Diogo’s absence will be a source of unity and responsibility because he wanted to win the World Cup, and we’re here to achieve that dream.
“Jota’s number 21 jersey goes to Rúben Neves and remains with all of us.
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