David Beckham’s little-known link to Nottingham Forest hero Brennan Johnson with Man Utd legend following his career

BRENNAN JOHNSON got the Wembley seal of approval from Golden Balls himself.

The Nottingham Forest forward, 20, starred once again by scoring his 19th goal of the season in the play-off semi-final penalty shootout triumph over Sheffield United.

Brice Samba was the hero in the 3-2 pens victory but Johnson also showed his nerve by slotting home a spot-kick as Forest reached the May 29 final with Huddersfield for a place in the Premier League.

Johnson was beaming with delight afterwards.

His Instagram post 'Off to Wembley with my family' - accompanied by a pic of the Welshman sitting between team-mates Djed Spence and Alex Mighten - was liked by David Beckham.

Johnson's dad David, who was at the City Ground on Tuesday night, is a close pal of Beckham having both come through the Manchester United youth ranks as members of the Class of '92.

And former England captain Beckham takes a big interest in the progress of the highly-rated Wales international, who is destined for the Prem either with Forest or elsewhere.

Johnson has excelled in the Championship this term and was named the division's Young Player of the Season last month.

The nine-cap star was the subject of a £15million bid from Prem side Brentford in January but Forest rejected the offer.

As a result of reaching Wembley, Johnson as well as Huddersfield's Sorba Thomas will miss Wales' training camp in preparation for their World Cup play-off final against Scotland or Ukraine on June 5.

SUN BINGO GET £50 BONUS & 50 FREE SPINS TODAY

Dragons captain Gareth Bale will also miss out due to his club commitments with Real Madrid ahead of the Champions League final versus Liverpool in Paris on May 28.

Wales' non-Premier League players start their preparations in Cardiff on Thursday with Robert Page's side expected to travel to Portugal next Monday for a week-long warm-weather camp.