Manchester United youngster Charlie Savage has turned down a call-up from the Wales U21 squad so he can help Forest Green in their battle to avoid relegation.
The highly-rated 19-year-old, son of former Leicester, Blackburn, Derby midfielder Robbie Savage, joined the League One strugglers in January on a loan move until the end of the 2022/23 season.
So far, Savage has made a big impact for Duncan Ferguson's side, appearing in their last six League One fixtures.
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In fact, he scored his first senior goal earlier this month – a moment that brought a tear to the eye of father Robbie, who was working for BT Sport when he scored against Bristol Rovers.
Savage is so determined to try and help Forest Green Rovers avoid relegation that he has rejected an invitation from the Wales national team to focus on his club football.
"I’ve been given permission to stay with Forest Green Rovers for the upcoming international break," Savage told FGR's official website.
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"It is always an honour to be called up for your country, wearing the national team shirt is one of the best and proudest experiences you can have in football.
"I’m really enjoying my time with Forest Green and want to give everything to help us fight for points during the next two weeks and then into the remainder of the season.
"This is something that I have given a lot of consideration to, I want to repay the respect and loyalty to an incredible group of players, coaches and staff who are giving everything every day for this club."
The Manchester United academy product added: "I want to thank the coaches and everyone at FA Wales for their understanding and I look forward to joining up with them again at the end of the season."
Rovers will need a minor miracle to avoid the drop. After suffering a 2-0 defeat to Plymouth Argyle on Saturday afternoon, the club sit rock bottom of League One with 23 points from 37 games.
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Despite being so far from safety, the majority of fans were behind Savage's decision to remain with his club.
One said: "Fair play to Charlie, shows the type of lad he is. He could teach some of our spoilt brats of players a thing or two about dedication and attitude."
A second wrote: "Massive respect to Charlie. To stay and want to fight for a club that’s not his own shows they type of young man he is and the professional he is developing into."
A third added: "That is class from him, being a loanee he could of easily gone and got away from being in the side with no confidence but he has decided to stay and fight with the club. Now that’s what you call dedication."
Thoughts on Savage's decision to remain at Forest Green, despite earning a call-up to the Wales U21 side?
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Let us know in the comments.
Topics: Manchester United, Charlie Savage, Robbie Savage, Premier League, Wales
Jack Kenmare