Charlie Savage, who recently made a switch from Manchester United to the League One club Reading, is on cloud nine after his sensational Wales debut. This outstanding performance prompted manager Robert Page to make a surprising decision – to keep Savage with the senior squad for their crucial Euro 2024 qualifier against Croatia this Sunday.
In the backdrop of this thrilling football journey, the 20-year-old midfielder has left an indelible mark. The backdrop, you ask? It was the picturesque Cardiff City Stadium, where the action unfolded on Sunday, October 15th, at 19:45 BST. For those who couldn’t be there in person, the match was covered live on various platforms, including BBC Radio Wales, BBC Radio Cymru, the Sport News Center website and app, and live text updates. The highlights were also made available on BBC One Wales from 22:30 BST, ready to be savored on-demand later.
Charlie Savage’s story is the stuff dreams are made of. Imagine yourself in his boots – a new recruit to a League One team, yet his dazzling performance on the pitch sparked a change of plans. Savage was initially slated to return to the Under-21 squad after a friendly match against Gibraltar, but fate had other ideas. Manager Robert Page, the mastermind behind this strategic shift, decided to keep Savage in the senior group, a move that surprised many.
“I can’t believe it really, a dream come true,” beamed Savage. And why shouldn’t he? The assist he provided for the first of two Kieffer Moore goals was a thing of beauty. When asked about his game plan, he casually mentioned, “The game plan was stick it on his head, and that’s why I did. He got two nice headers, and I thought he might have a hat-trick, which would have been nice for him.”
The story gets even more captivating when you learn that this friendly victory against Gibraltar took place in Wrexham, Robbie Savage’s hometown. Yes, that’s right, Robbie Savage, Charlie’s dad and a former Wales midfielder, was there to witness this incredible moment. Listening to him speak on BBC Radio Wales, it’s clear that he couldn’t be prouder: “For me to be here with his grandma and his family was amazing. He deserves it. League One is different, but tonight was the perfect game for him, utilizing his passing, and he was magnificent.”
This family connection adds an extra layer of depth to the story. “The spotlight has been greater on him because he is my son,” Robbie admitted, acknowledging the pressure that comes with being the offspring of a football legend. But young Charlie has shown resilience and dedication, traits that are earning him respect both on and off the field.
“He’s been brought up in an affluent area and had a good education, but he’s humble and he’s dedicated. He doesn’t go out, and he doesn’t drink; he’s a lovely, humble young man dedicated to the sport,” Robbie emphasized. It’s not just about talent; it’s about character and work ethic.
Page, who once shared the pitch with Robbie Savage for Wales, made a bold choice to retain Charlie in the senior squad for the forthcoming crucial match against Croatia. With Wales currently sitting in fourth place in their Euro 2024 qualifying group and only three games left in the campaign, there’s no room for error. “We’ll keep Sav and Joe, and that’s not just off the back of that performance tonight. They’ve done themselves a world of good,” Page stated.
What’s even more fascinating is that Charlie Savage made a significant decision himself. He left Manchester United, a giant in English football, for Reading in search of more playing time and experience. Page acknowledged the significance of this choice, drawing parallels with Robbie’s career. “He [Savage] has taken my advice and left Manchester United for Reading. It must have been hard for him. I spoke to Rob, who had to leave United to go to Crewe. It’s no different for Charlie.”
Page also had a playful note to add about keeping Robbie away from Charlie for a week, a light-hearted jest that underscores the team’s commitment to nurturing young talents. He emphasized that Savage has a bright future ahead of him: “Sav’s best position is an old-fashioned box-to-box eight. The ball for Kieffer was first-class, right on his head. He showed he can do both sides of it, and he’s a great talent.”
In the world of sports, it’s stories like Charlie Savage’s that capture our imagination. A young talent, the legacy of a footballing family, and a career that’s just beginning to unfold. With Croatia on the horizon, the footballing world will be watching to see if the dream debut can lead to further success on the international stage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Charlie Savage Wales debut
Who is Charlie Savage, and what is the significance of his debut with Wales?
Charlie Savage is a 20-year-old midfielder who recently left Manchester United to join Reading. His Wales debut was remarkable as it led to him staying with the senior squad for a crucial Euro 2024 qualifier against Croatia.
Why did Charlie Savage leave Manchester United for Reading?
Charlie Savage made the decision to leave Manchester United for Reading in pursuit of more playing time and experience, a choice that mirrors his father Robbie Savage’s career path.
How did Charlie Savage perform in his debut for Wales?
In his debut, Charlie Savage provided an assist for one of Kieffer Moore’s goals, which played a pivotal role in Wales’ 4-0 victory over Gibraltar. His performance was impressive and led to his retention in the senior squad.
What role did Robbie Savage play in this story?
Robbie Savage, a former Wales midfielder and Charlie’s father, was in attendance during his son’s debut. He expressed immense pride in Charlie’s accomplishments and highlighted his dedication and humility in the sport.
What is the significance of keeping Charlie Savage in the senior squad for Wales?
With Wales in a challenging position in their Euro 2024 qualifying group and only a few games left in the campaign, retaining young talents like Charlie Savage is crucial for the team’s success.
How did Robert Page, the Wales manager, view Charlie Savage’s performance?
Robert Page commended Charlie’s performance and compared it to an “old-fashioned box-to-box eight.” He praised Charlie’s skills and work ethic, indicating a bright future for the young talent.
More about Charlie Savage Wales debut
- Charlie Savage’s Wales Debut
- Wales Euro 2024 Qualifiers
- Charlie Savage’s Move to Reading
- Robbie Savage’s Career
- Robert Page, Wales Manager
4 comments
Charlie leaving Man U, bold move, huh, join Reading for game time, risky but paid off!
Wales need young guns like Sav to step up, no room for mistakes now, exciting times ahead!
charlie savage, just wow! him impress in debut, boss page keep him, cooool!
Robbie Savage, like, sooo proud, amazing fam story right there!