Hughes makes Toshack plea

Last updated : 02 August 2005 By Gary Fish
Blackburn Rovers boss Mark Hughes has asked Wales gaffer John Toshack to end the uncertainty surrounding Robbie Savage's international career.
Savage had been a regular for the national team during Hughes' spell in charge but retired from international football following a public row with Toshack shortly after he took over the reins.

The midfielder has since publicly admitted he made the wrong decision in retiring and has made himself available for selection again, but he is yet to hear whether he is still under consideration by the Wales management team.

A frustrated Hughes said:

"I would like someone to actually come out and say whether or not Robbie's going to play, or if he's in the Welsh manager's plans because I think Robbie needs to get it clear in his own mind that he's either an international footballer or an ex-international footballer.

"I think the situation needs to be clarified."

Savage criticised the appointment of Toshack as Wales coach and thus began the problems, with Toshack dropping Savage in favour of younger players.

However, Hughes believes Toshack is making his decision based on Savage's persona rather than ability as a player.

He added: "They've been force-fed a lot of rubbish from a lot of avenues and maybe that has clouded their opinions of the qualities of Robbie Savage, which is disappointing.

"He's given Wales good service in the past and he'd like to give them more."