OWEN BECK says Liverpool legend Ian Rush is his inspiration as he plots a career pathway like his famous great-uncle.
The Reds full-back, on loan at Dundee, is in line to make his Wales debut against Gibraltar in a Wrexham friendly tonight.
Wales and Liverpool legend Ian Rush is Beck’s great-unclePA:Empics Sport
Liverpool and Wales great Rush is expected to be in the crowd at the Racecourse to watch the 21-year-old in action.
Wrexham-born Beck said: “He’s someone I look up to. He’s a great inspiration.
“When I speak to him over the phone or see him in person, his advice means a lot because it’s coming from the best.
“I’ve looked up all his clips and his goals and there’s not many better players I could have looked up.
“What he did in his career at club and international level was incredible. It’s exactly what I want to do.
“When I got call up it was a dream come true and a surreal moment. All my family are coming.
“If he gives me any advice it’s advice from the best so it would be really valuable to me. I’m sure he’ll be here watching.”
Rush scored 28 goals for Wales before Gareth Bale broke his goal scoring record in 2018.
FREE BETS – BEST BETTING OFFERS AND BONUSES NEW CUSTOMERS
AFPLiverpool youngster Owen Beck is set to make his Wales debut against Gibraltar[/caption]
Wales boss Robert Page is also expected to hand Charlie Savage, son of Wales and Leicester midfielder Robbie, his first senior cap against Gibraltar, ranked 198th in the world.
Ahead of the Racecourse clash, Page has one eye on Sunday’s crunch Euro 2024 qualifier at home to Croatia.
This will be the nation’s first father and son combination since 1986 when Jeremy Charles followed dad Mel – who played at the 1958 World Cup.
Savage Jr, who left Manchester United for Reading in the summer, said: “It’s an amazing experience.
“My nan’s coming, she lives about a mile away from The Racecourse.
“To have all my family there from Wrexham, it will be an amazing night.
“It’s something I have always dreamt of doing. It’s surreal. I’m just excited to get going. I’ve played for the Under 17s, 18s, 19s, 21s and this is the next step.
“There’s a few familiar faces in the squad but the older players have been really nice, looked after me and made sure I have everything I need.
“I’ve only had a few conversations with Rob. I’ve listened to what he has said and, as a young player, it’s a privilege to even have the first team manager watching you and then to call you up.
“Growing up, if someone told me at the age of 20 that I’d be called up by my country, I’d have bitten your hand off. I’ve got to enjoy it whether I play or not.”