The Rovers dressing room gave full backing to Ben Brereton ahead of his exploits with Chile.

Brereton will aim to win his first cap for La Roja against Argentina next week having pledged his allegiance to the country of his mother’s birth.

His call-up ended months of speculation about the prospect of the 22-year-old being called-up by national team boss Martin Lasarte for a World Cup qualifying double-header that is followed by the Copa America.

The squad posted messages of support after the news was confirmed, with club captain Elliott Bennett going one further and discussing the players’ pride with the Chilean press.

"He told us about the possibility and everyone in the dressing room supported him. We hoped he would receive the call because it is a great honour to represent your mother's country,” Bennett said.

“We discussed the issue and everyone believed it was an incredible opportunity to play with the best in the world on such an important stage.

“Ben played for England, but I don't think you can turn down a chance to play for Chile and represent half of his heritage. I guess now we could say that he left his mother happy and proud, because he represented both countries."

Brereton played for England up to Under-20s level, but as Chile searched for another attacking option, they pursued the option of offering the former Nottingham Forest forward the chance to represent them.

The call comes after Brereton’s best season to date in Rovers colours in terms of both goals and appearances. He puts that partly down to maturing, and Bennett says there has been a blossoming of Brereton’s personality over time.

“He is a great guy. We all love him in the dressing room, he is a very important part of the group,” he added.

“When he arrived in 2018 he was a little shy, but his personality came out more over time.

“His desire and workrate are incredible. Just when you think he has no more energy, Ben produces another lung-breaking run that will make sure he becomes popular with Chilean fans.

“His greatest strength is moving at high speed with the ball. He doesn't have many tricks, but he seems to glide down the pitch. This call will give him more confidence.”