Wales Under-21s: Paul Bodin picks squad for Belgium and Germany qualifiers
Paul Bodin has named his first squad since taking over from Robert Page as Wales Under 21 manager.
Wales take on Belgium (6th September) and Germany (10th September), with both games taking place at the Racecourse Ground.
It features a few surprises would be an understatement. 11 players continue from previous squads, with the rest getting their chance to earn their first caps.
“I’m really looking forward to it and I’m sure when the draw was done, the players would have been looking out for it as well,” said Bodin, who was speaking at the squad announcement.
“They are two nations whose first teams are fantastic. They qualify for most tournaments, have exceptional players but in the intermediate age groups they are very strong.
“It will be a really stern challenge for us but, like all challenges, you relish that.”
In goal, 18-year-old Cardiff City stopper George Ratcliffe, who’s joined JD Cymru Premier side Barry Town United on a season-long loan, is recalled, while new Ipswich Town goalkeeper Adam Przybek has also been called up to possibly win his first cap, having been part of Wales Under 19 squad since 2016.
In defence, former Manchester United and current MK Dons centre back Regan Poole looks set to continue as captain of the side, Cardiff City defender Cameron Coxe is also recalled, while Sheffield United defender Rhys Norrington-Davies is rewarded for his fine start to the season on loan at Rochdale.
Swansea City defenders Brandon Cooper and Ben Cabango are both included, with Cabango having impressed during his time on loan with The New Saints in the Welsh Premier League last season. Aaron Lewis, who joined Lincoln City after being released from Swansea City is also included.
Defender Ben Williams, midfielders Dylan Levitt, Jack Vale and Brennan Johnson, and attacker Terry Taylor have been called up to their first Under 21 squad. Barnsley youngster Williams and Manchester United playmaker Levitt both looking to push on after their surprise call ups to Ryan Giggs’ senior squad for the matches against Hungary and Croatia in June.
Under 21 regulars Jack Evans of Swansea City, Dan Mooney of Fleetwood Town, Liam Cullen of Swansea City and Mark Harris, who is on loan at Wrexham from Cardiff City are all recalled to the side.
Bangor-born Nathan Broadhead, who has been in scintillating form since joining Burton Albion on loan after impressing during pre-season for parent club Everton.
Meanwhile, Leeds United forward Niall Huggins and Grimsby Town midfielder Harry Clifton could both be in line to win only their second cap.
Wales Under 21 squad: Adam Przybek, George Ratcliffe, Regan Poole, Cameron Coxe, Rhys Norrington-Davies, Ben Williams, Brandon Cooper, Ben Cabango, Jack Evans, Harry Clifton, Daniel Mooney, Mark Harris, Jack Vale, Niall Huggins, Brennan Johnson, Dylan Levitt, Liam Cullen, Terry Taylor, Nathan Broadhead, Aaron Lewis.
(Featured Image: Colin Ewart)
