Morgan Knowles switches allegiance to England

St Helens back rower Morgan Knowles has switched his international allegiance from Wales to England.

The 23-year-old, who was born in Barrow, Cumbria, has picked up four caps for the Welsh since 2015 after qualifying through his mother.

However, ahead of next year’s Rugby League World Cup, he has decided to instead represent the country of his birth in the aim of earning a place in Shaun Wane’s side.

“I feel very honoured to have played for Wales and represent my Welsh family and heritage and I am hugely grateful for the opportunities and experiences this has brought my way,” Knowles said. “But first and foremost I’m a really proud Cumbrian.

“I was born in Barrow and I’m English and I want to play for my country. Hopefully if I work hard, I will be able to do that and I am excited about what the future may hold.”

England head coach Shaun Wane added: “I have been aware of Morgan for quite a while now, he is a player I admire greatly.

“His skillful and competitive way of playing really suits what we want to see from an England player. I am sure he will a big part within our England top squad and the success we will have.

“Already I have spoken to him and I like him. He is a player that stayed behind the first time I met him and asked what he needs to work on. That speaks volumes of him as a player, that desire to improve is everything to me.”

Knowles has been instantly added into England’s Elite Training Squad, as has 20-year-old outside back Herbie Farnworth, who has featured prominently for Brisbane in the NRL this season.