International boss told former Man United prospect to quit Old Trafford and revive his career

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Wales manager Rob Page has admitted that he urged Charlie Savage to quit Manchester United in a bid to secure more “competitive football” and if he “wanted international football.”

Savage, much like his father Robbie Savage, began his career in United’s youth academy and made one senior appearance for the Red Devils before his departure.

Ralf Rangnick handed Savage his Red Devils debut after the Reading player came off the bench in a 1-1 draw against Young Boys in the Champions League in 2021.

However, the 20-year-old midfielder completed his move to Reading in the summer on a four-year deal after the club were relegated from the Championship.

Despite being born in England, Savage has chosen to represent Wales at youth level — much like his father — and could soon be capped at senior level for the country.

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Page’s advice to Savage over United

Savage is in contention to represent Wales in the upcoming friendly match against Gibraltar at Wrexham’s Racecourse Ground stadium on Wednesday.

Speaking ahead of the forthcoming Gibraltar clash, Page recalled what Savage’s father went through in his career and reached out to the Reading player himself.

According to The Daily Mirror, the Wales boss added that the former United prospect took his “advice on board” and is now “playing well” at League One side Reading.

“I know what Robbie went through when he left Manchester United years ago to go to Crewe,” Page said.

“I was in contact with Charlie over the last few months and told him he needed to go out and play competitive football if he wanted a career and if he wanted international football.

“He took that advice on board, he went to Reading, where he is playing well and scoring goals.

“He was on stand-by with us in September and now he gets the next stage in his development and he deserves it.”

Savage’s new start at Reading

Savage has already secured regular first-team minutes at Reading, with the youngster starting in 11 matches in League One this season.

The former United player has scored once and registered an assist in League One, while Savage has found the back of the net once in two Carabao Cup appearances.

Savage received his first senior call-up under Page after impressing at Reading and his father admitted that he was “so proud” to hear the news.

Speaking on X, formerly known as Twitter, Robbie posted: “So, so proud … hard work, dedication and sacrifices are paying off.”