Source: SKY_Sports
Williams turns back on Wales
Middlesbrough youngster Rhys Williams has chosen to commit his international future to Australia, not Wales.
The 20-year-old, who enjoyed a productive loan spell at Burnley this season, was born in Perth and has made it clear that the land of his birth is where his allegiances lie.
The defender has made 10 appearances for Wales' Under 21 side and has featured in the senior squad on a number of occasions.
He is, however, yet to make an appearance for John Toshack's side and is free to turn his back on the Dragons.
After holding discussions with Australia boss Pim Verbeek that is precisely what he has decided to do and he has now applied to Fifa for permission to represent his homeland.
A spokesman for the Football Association of Wales (FAW) said: "Rhys has informed us that he now wants to play for Australia.
"The wheels are in motion, and a decision will be made by Fifa's transfer committee. But it looks like a fait accompli now."
Wales are understandably disappointed to have lost the services of Williams, but have had numerous opportunities during recent World Cup qualifiers in which to hand him a full cap.
It is believed Toshack's reluctance to play him in a double-header against Finland and Germany in March proved to be final straw, persuading the Boro ace his future lay elsewhere.
