Cruz Beckham turns 21! David Beckham brands son ‘fiercely loyal to family and friends’ with thinly veiled reference to Brooklyn’s ongoing estrangement as he leads tributes

David Beckham led a birthday tribute to his “kind, thoughtful and fiercely loyal” son Cruz in an Instagram post on Friday morning, as his estrangement from eldest child Brooklyn continues.

The former Manchester United and England footballer was among the first family members to post a birthday message for the young musician as he celebrated his 21st birthday.

Sharing a video of Cruz from his childhood, the retired athlete referenced his eldest son’s decision to distance himself from his immediate family in a post filled with platitudes aimed at the young musician.

‘Happy 21st birthday to my little boy,’ he wrote. ‘It’s not that little anymore, but what I’m most proud of you is the person and man you’ve become; You are kind, thoughtful, and fiercely loyal to your family, friends, and everyone around you, which makes you a very special person.

‘You’re on your own journey in life and you’re working hard and having fun, which is what life is all about… We love you Cruzie and hope you have the most amazing day because you deserve it.’

The accompanying video footage showed the young Cruz honing his musical talents by playing the guitar and piano, spending time with his parents, and vacationing with his siblings, including Brooklyn.

David Beckham led a birthday tribute to his “kind, thoughtful and fiercely loyal” son Cruz in an Instagram post on Friday as his estrangement from eldest child Brooklyn continues.

Sharing her own praise, Victoria told Cruz she “couldn’t be more proud of the sweet, kind and talented young man you have become.”

Concluding his words by referring to his wife, he added: ‘Congratulations, mom, for raising another special young man.’

Sharing a video full of personal family moments, Victoria added: ‘Happy birthday…. We couldn’t be more proud of the sweet, kind, talented young man you have become.

‘You’ve worked so hard and learned your craft that the world is now your oyster. We love you so much!’

Elsewhere, elder Romeo shared a photo of himself and baby Cruz alongside their fashion designer mother with the caption: ‘I love you bro.’

The musician’s girlfriend, Jackie Apostel, also wished her ‘person’ a happy birthday alongside a new photo of Cruz.

Sharing a separate series of photos documenting her boyfriend from infancy to the present day, she added: ‘0. You’ve been exactly the same since day one.’

Elsewhere, proud aunt Jackie Adams, who is younger sister to mum Victoria, wrote: ‘Happy birthday to one of the most amazing people I know.’

Just days earlier, David and Victoria had splurged on a lavish Beatles-themed party for their son at Mayfair restaurant The Maine; This party was attended by everyone except US-based Brooklyn and his actress wife Nicola Peltz.

Attached video footage shows young Cruz spending time with his family and vacationing with his siblings, including Brooklyn (left)

Cruz, who recently started his music career with his band The Breakers, seems to have been improving his guitar skills from an early age.

Although he didn’t attend Brooklyn’s birthday celebrations, Cruz was photographed with both of his brothers in another post