Ethan Ampadu and Wales endured a tricky night in which they failed to qualify automatically for Euro 2024 and will now need the play-offs – but Nathan Blake praised the Leeds United player.
Ampadu, 23, has been incredible for Leeds and Wales this season, already. He has played every single minute of our 18 games in all competitions, a serious achievement in itself. Five Wales caps, too.
On Tuesday night, Wales had to win and needed Armenia to get a result against Croatia. They went 1-0 up through Neco Williams, Harry Wilson shining again – nabbing an assist. But they could not hold on.
Lille’s Yusuf Yazici scoring a penalty after Ben Davies was adjudged to have fouled, albeit harshly. Even if Wales had won, Croatia beat Armenia. So, it is the play-offs for Wales next, which begin in March.
But there were positives, the first half especially, against an in-form Turkey side. Ampadu has been partnering Birmingham City’s James in midfield and Blake told BBC’s coverage they are blossoming.
“That partnership between him (Ethan Ampadu) and JJ (Jordan James) has been fantastic. It’s really starting to blossom,” Blake said, who actually played for Leeds twice in 2005 while on loan with us.
Nathan Blake praises Leeds United star Ethan Ampadu
What is clear is that Ampadu is quickly becoming a key part of Rob Page’s side. Along with Danny Ward in goal, Joe Rodon, Tottenham’s Davies, Williams, Wilson and other stars. Ampadu is the natural leader.
Already boasting 49 caps for his country at 23, he will easily go on and win 100 if he continues the way he is going. Surely, he will also captain his country – something which James has predicted recently.
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