Ryan’s the reason Brooks chose Wales gig

THE chance to work with boss Ryan Giggs is behind Sheffield United ace David Brooks’ decision to swap countries to play for Wales. Brooks was England Under-20s’ player of the tournament as they lifted the Toulon trophy for the second straight year last summer.

Now he wants to star for Giggs’ Wales. In May 2017 he was named in the Wales squad for the Toulon Tournament, only to withdraw and be included in England’s travelling party just 11 minutes later. And he went on to be their star man.

Warrington-born Brooks, 20, who qualifies for Wales as his mother hails from Llangollen, said: “Going away with England was a good stepping stone for my career, but I always wanted to play for Wales.

“I’d already agreed with England, so I had to fulfil the agreement I’d made, but after that Wales got in touch and it hadn’t put them off.”

He could still switch back to the Three Lions as he has only played in friendly matches for the Dragons.

But Manchester United fan Brooks (left) is determined to impress Giggs.

“I’ve been in a few squads and this is the first time I’ve been away with Giggsy,” said the midfielder.

“He was part of the team I supported and looked up to growing up. Now I’ve just got to work hard here to get in the manager’s plans.”

ALEX BYWATER