BROOKS’ WALES CALL-UP SET TO ‘CAUSE A STIR’
WALES have turned to another whizz-kid to boost World Cup hopes – with manager Chris Coleman admitting David Brooks’ defection from England will cause a stir across the border.
But the national boss is adamant the former Three Lions youth star deserves his call-up for next month’s qualifiers and insisted the 20-year-old is fully committed after turning his back on English advances.
Wales’ bid to reach Russia will come to a head against Georgia and the Republic of Ireland, with Wales now in the driving seat for a play-off spot following wins over Austria and Moldova – both inspired by teenage sensation Ben Woodburn.
The 17-year-old’s debut sparked controversy in some quarters with Liverpool’s Nottingham-born attacker snubbing the country of his birth to represent Wales.
Coleman has now turned to Sheffield United youngster Brooks who wowed observers with his recent performance in the Steel City derby. His selection comes after Brooks was named as player of the competition as England’s Under-20s triumphed in this summer’s prestigious Toulon Tournament – only for him to then opt for Wales.
Now he could follow Woodburn’s steps, with Coleman admitting: “He’s earned it - he’s shown great promise for some years, he’s been on our radar and the connection is there.
“We’re not the only country that have one or two players with dual nationality, a lot of countries have that, and luckily for us he’s chosen Wales. I’m sure it will cause one or two ripples on the other side of the (Severn) bridge because it caused a bit of a stir with Ben.”
Full squad: Page 35