PERCY Montgomery could make a shock appearance in this year's World Cup as a member of the South Africa squad.

And Newport benefactor Tony Brown says he will give sympathetic consideration to any request for Montgomery (pictured) to be temporarily released from his contract, whether that is with Newport or a provincial Gwent team.

Montgomery turned his back on South Africa to take up a two-and-a-half year contract with Newport last autumn.

But Monty, who celebrated his 29th birthday with two tries for Newport in their 43-27 victory over troubled Swansea on Saturday, says he has received a call from South Africa coach Rudi Streauli.

"He asked me if I would be available for the World Cup and told me he's been keeping an eye one me and knows I've been playing well," said Montgomery.

South Africa ideally want all their players to be playing at home, though there was an exception in the last World Cup with outside half Jannie de Beer.

But Montgomery is under contract to Newport for the next two years, and if Welsh rugby goes provincial is certain to be part of a Gwent team.

"My commitment is to Newport, but I'm keeping fit and playing the best I can," he said.

"You always want to represent your country and you never close all doors. The World Cup is a possibility. "They know where I am, they have my number and they have Tony Brown's number."

Montgomery has won 50 caps for the Springboks, making him their third highest capped player.

He joined Newport for financial security, but has impressed everyone with his enthusiasm and his class, scoring four tries and kicking 49 points.

Brown admitted: "I am very aware Percy is a proud South African, and that playing in the World Cup is the greatest honour any player could have.

"No-one has approached me, but if they did I would look at it very sympathetically."

Brown is clear on Montgomery's future in Wales, however. "He will be playing for whichever side is at Rodney Parade (Newport or Gwent)," he said.

Monty played all through the Swansea game though he nearly didn't make it because of separate leg injuries. "It was difficult because I hadn't trained all week, but I wanted to play. I'm very happy after scoring two tries," he said.

Coach Leigh Jones paid tribute to Monty. "He was been carrying an injury and was doubtful all week," he said.

"He wanted to play though it was impeding him. It shows the type of character he is."