What's Happening?
Wales captain Aaron Ramsey is set to return to international football after a 13-month hiatus. Ramsey, who has 86 caps, has been included in a 26-man squad for an upcoming friendly against England and a World Cup qualifier against Belgium. Head coach Craig Bellamy expressed confidence in Ramsey's fitness and potential impact on the team. Ramsey recently joined Mexican club Pumas UNAM and has been regaining fitness following hamstring surgery. The squad also sees the return of Ethan Ampadu, while Connor Roberts and Danny Ward are unavailable due to injuries. Tottenham defender Ben Davies is on the verge of earning his 100th cap for Wales.
Why It's Important?
Ramsey's return is significant for the Welsh national team as they prepare for crucial matches. His experience and skill could be pivotal in their World Cup qualifying campaign. The inclusion of key players like Ramsey and Ampadu strengthens the squad, potentially improving their chances against strong opponents like England and Belgium. The team's performance in these matches could impact their standing in the World Cup qualifiers, where they currently sit third in their group. The potential milestone for Ben Davies also highlights the depth of experience within the team.
What's Next?
Wales will face England at Wembley, marking their first encounter since the 2022 World Cup. The team will then play Belgium in Cardiff. These matches are critical for Wales' World Cup qualification hopes. The team is almost guaranteed a play-off spot due to their Nations League results, but direct qualification remains a goal. The outcome of these games could influence future squad selections and strategies. Additionally, discussions are ongoing with Mikey Moore about switching international allegiance to Wales, which could further bolster the team's future prospects.
