Tom Lawrence: Missing Euros was the toughest time in career

Tom Lawrence has revealed his desire to play in the European Championships.

The 25-year-old missed the last tournament due to injury, but the Derby County attacker is keen to make up for his missed opportunity.

Lawrence torn his ankle ligaments, forcing him to withdraw from a squad which qualified for the semi-finals of Euro 2016.

“I’d love to play in a major tournament,” said Lawrence. 

“It was my biggest learning curve in missing the Euros and dealing with that.

“It was the toughest time. You’re looking forward to going to the Euros and for that to be halted by an injury is never nice. 

“Since then I’ve come on a long way. It’d be nice to get in there again.”

One player who could help live Lawrence’s dream is Daniel James, who has been in fine form for new club Manchester United.

James has been nominated for Player of the Month for the Red Devils, following his two goals in the opening month of the season.

However, the former Swansea City winger has found himself booked for simulation in the last few outings.

Fellow winger Lawrence though has come to the defence of his Wales teammate.

Lawrence says: “It’s a hard one. You get a little clip and run at pace, some angles show that it looked like you’ve dived and you know you’ve been clipped.

“It’s a difficult one, knowing Dan like I do, I wouldn’t class him as a diver at all.

Having also played at United as a youngster, Lawrence has predicted big things for his compatriot.

“I had no doubts that when he got that move that he’d shine at Man United, said Lawrence.

He’s a great lad, he’s willing to earn and I’m sure that will only continue for him.

“As a youngster, you’ve got to work hard and never get too ahead of yourself and then your opportunities will come.”

(Featured Image: Lewis Mitchell)