Savage Thanks Tosh

Last updated : 18 March 2005 By Gary Fish

Blackburn Rovers new-boy Robbie Savage says new Wales boss John Toshack helped him through his troubled transfer from Birmingham to Blackburn.


The midfielder has also revealed he would love to captain his country - despite previously criticising the appointment of Toshack as Mark Hughes' successor.


Savage explained how Toshack's words of support aided him during his time as an outcast in the final couple of weeks at the club.


"He told me the best thing I could do was to keep my head up, and it meant a lot to me," Savage said.


"It was one of the nicest phone calls I received at the time... he took the time to get in touch when I was feeling low."


Savage was publically criticised by Birmingham owners David Sullivan and David Gold before and after his £3million transfer to Ewood Park.


Despite comments made by Savage about Toshack’s appointment, that all seems to have been swept under the carpet following talks between them and relations have been smoothed over.

Savage now sees the possibility of one day captaining Wales:

"I'm delighted to have been named in the squad, I just hope I can do enough to win a place in the starting line-up.


"There's a number of new players selected and the squad has a youthful look.


"I'd like to do my bit as one of the more experienced lads to help them bridge the gap between club and international football.


"Who knows, I might even be named captain. I understand it is not a major priority for the manager - who will make a decision before the game - but I hope my name is in the frame."