KUALA LUMPUR: Burnley midfielder Joshua Brownhill has dismissed rumours of Malaysian roots, firmly stating that he is of English nationality.
The 29-year-old footballer from Warrington addressed the speculation on his Instagram Story, followed by more than 52,000 fans.
"Just wanted to address the situation regarding some rumours that have been circulating.
"Unfortunately, my only nationality is English, and I am not Malaysian as some people may believe.
"I'm not sure how this started, but I want to clear it up. Thanks for the support, regardless," Brownhill wrote.
The clarification follows weeks of social media speculation suggesting Brownhill could be eligible to play for Malaysia due to alleged Malaysian heritage.
Shortly after his statement, Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) owner Tunku Mahkota Ismail Sultan Ibrahim shared an Instagram Story revealing his private exchange with the midfielder.
In his message, Tunku Mahkota Ismail, a key figure in the Harimau Malaya project, encouraged Brownhill to address the rumours.
"Hi Josh. Merry Christmas. I wish you and your family well. I think you have to come up with a statement that you're not Malaysian.
"My country is crazy over you and begging me to get you to play for Malaysia.
" It will help if you can clear the air. Sorry to bother you. Best wishes. Thank you," wrote Tunku Mahkota Ismail.
Brownhill replied: "Hi mate! Merry Christmas to you, too! I've been thinking about addressing this for a while now, and I think it's time.
"I'm not quite sure how it all started. Thank you for the message."
The exchange between Tunku Mahkota Ismail and Brownhill has since gone viral, with netizens sharing screenshots and urging greater caution in verifying claims about overseas players' eligibility.