Why are England playing without names on their shirts in the second half of the friendly match against Belgium?

England will play in the second half against Belgium without names on their shirts.

When the Three Lions leave Wembley Stadium on Tuesday evening after half-time, fans will notice a change in the players' kits.

The names will disappear from the back of their new away strip as part of a match dedicated to the Alzheimer's Society.

England has an official charity partnership with the organization and will help raise awareness of dementia this week.

Having player names disappear from shirts will help draw attention to how people with dementia lose precious memories.

Part of the Three Lions' announcement statement read: “With memory loss being the most common symptom of dementia, this year's dedicated international goal is to raise awareness of the symptoms of dementia and encourage fans to seek a diagnosis if they detect any telltale signs in themselves.” Or their loved ones.”

This will be the second time England have worn unnamed kits after their first dedicated international match in 2022 against Switzerland.

After the match against Belgium, the shirts will be auctioned off to raise funds to support research into early diagnosis.

Kate Lee, chief executive of the Alzheimer's Society, said: “We hope this amazing gesture with the players' shirts will once again get fans across the country talking, and thinking about the signs and symptoms of dementia.

“By using football to highlight and raise awareness of the symptoms of dementia, we hope to not only encourage fans to donate towards our early diagnosis research, but also to support their loved ones as much as they support their own football team.

“This means taking crucial first steps in seeking a diagnosis if they suspect that someone they care about may be affected. A diagnosis can be daunting, but it's better to know.”

England will wear their new 2024 away shirt during the match as they raise awareness for a great cause.

Coach Gareth Southgate's team is playing its second friendly match in four days at Wembley Stadium after hosting Brazil on Saturday evening.

If you see signs of dementia in a loved one, show them your support by visiting alzheimers.org.uk/sports To use the Alzheimer's Association Symptom Checklist, get more information and donate to help fund research into early diagnosis.