England boss: Ben choice not my fault

GARETH Southgate says he is not responsible for England losing teenage sensation Ben Woodburn to Wales.

Woodburn made headline across Europe over the weekend, scoring just minutes into his Wales debut to win the match against Austria and keep alive Welsh hopes of reaching the World Cup in 2018.

The 17-year-old’s arrival on the international stage has sparked an inquest among some fans and media in England into how a such a talented player born and raised in England has ended up playing for Wales despite his only ties being a Welsh grandfather.

Woodburn, who grew up in Cheshire, opted for Wales after becoming part of the age-grade set-up years ago, with Chris Coleman insisting he never had any doubts about the decision the youngster would make.

England are understood to have contacted Woodburn last season after his emergence with Liverpool but were told his heart lies with only one team.

Asked about the situation, the England boss said. “I am responsible for most things but not responsible for that specific (case).”

“We have lots of kids who are dual-nationality in our programme and it’s increasingly difficult to monitor all of them. You can’t pick all of them at younger ages.

“(Woodburn) is one that did train with us in some of the junior ages, but some of the countries are able to fast-track them more quickly and of course that appeals to some of the kids.

“And also some of them will feel that their heart belongs to other countries as well, so that’s a personal choice and we wish him well.”

Wales’ age-grade coaches spotted Woodburn in parks football and persuaded him to give it a go this side of the Bridge, courtesy of the Welsh roots they had discovered.

He went on to captain every age group side in a system that has become renowned in football circles for developing talent.

Under the guidance of coach Osian Roberts, the young players learn the ‘Welsh Way’ of playing, are encouraged to sing the national anthem, taught it phonetically if necessary, learn about its history and that of the shirts they are wearing.