Craig Bellamy has made a brilliant start to life as Wales manager, remaining unbeaten in his five games having replaced Rob Page and Leeds United are a big part of his National Team squad.
This international break, four Leeds players are in Wales’ squad in the form of goalkeeper Karl Darlow, Joe Rodon, Dan James and Charlie Crew. The latter was called-up late to the senior side after the initial squad.
Not only did Leeds have four players in the squad, but they are without Ethan Ampadu – arguably Wales’ best midfielder at the moment. Connor Roberts is also in the Wales squad after his Leeds loan last season.
Connor Roberts posts pic of in-the-wars Joe Rodon on Saturday
Wales had to get a result away at Turkey on Saturday night to maintain their chances of finishing at least second in their National League Group, with Turkey leading. Wales managed to hold on to a 0-0 draw.
Darlow between the sticks was important, while Rodon was commanding as ever. Welsh media handed Rodon a rating of 8/10, putting his “body on the line”. Indeed, Rodon finished with his head strapped.
A clash of heads with teammate Mark Harris saw Rodon come off worse, though Rodon has updated fans that it is nothing to worry about. Roberts posted a picture after full-time of himself hugging Rodon.
Indeed, in the third of three pictures by Roberts, Rodon is seen with heavy strapping and showing plenty of emotion after the 0-0 draw. Roberts said: “Thoroughly enjoyed the occasion last night in Kayseri.
“Epic atmosphere and a cracking defensive display from the Boyos. Turkey away it was a pleasure.”
Jayden Bogle has replaced Connor Roberts at Leeds since his exit
Roberts only arrived at Leeds on loan in January from Burnley, but Leeds chose not sign him permanently and he is back with Burnley – immediately a rival to Leeds having tried to help The Whites get promoted.
| Games | Minutes | Tackles, duels | Interceptions, blocks | Clean sheets | G+A | |
| Connor Roberts | 10 starts 11 matches | 945 | 11 tackles 39 duels | 7 interceptions 2 blocks | 6 | 1 |
| Jayden Bogle | 14 starts 14 matches | 1238 | 18 tackles 84 duels | 8 interceptions 5 blocks | 8 | 2 |
The Welsh ace has been replaced by Jayden Bogle, who has been up and down in terms of form this term. But Bogle has improved the longer he has spent at Leeds and is now looking like a decent addition.
Burnley, Roberts and Jaidon Anthony got one better over Leeds in the first meeting between the two sides at Elland Road. But, Leeds sit above Burnley in the table, and the two will meet again in January.
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