Barrovian rugby league star Morgan Knowles will be joining six other new players in the England squad preparing for the 2021 World Cup.

The talented Saints player is a Welsh international who plays loose forward, second-row or hooker for St Helens in the Super League.

Knowles was born in Barrow-in-Furness and his career began with Ulverston before he later joined Barrow Island.

The 25-year-old ace has previously played in the 2019 Challenge Cup final in a losing effort against Warrington Wolves at Wembley Stadium.

He also appeared in the 2019 Super League Grand Final victory over the Salford Red Devils at Old Trafford.

Last year, Knowles played in St Helens' 2020 Super League Grand Final during their win over Wigan.

Morgan will be joined by James Roby, Tommy Makinson, Jonny Lomax, Mark Percival and Alex Walmsley in the squad after it was announced by Shaun Wane on April 6. He was named as the 2020 'player of the year' for his performance during the season and recently underwent surgery on his thumb in the off-season.

His former club, Barrow Island posted a message of support for their local hero on social media as the news that he would be joining the England squad was announced. Teams across the country are readying for their return after lockdown.