Wales Manager, Robert Page, Empathizes with Club’s No1 Being Excluded
Robert Page, the manager of the Wales national football team, has expressed his sympathy for goalkeeper Danny Ward, who has been excluded from Leicester City’s squad this season. Despite being Wales’ number one goalkeeper, Ward has not played a single minute for his club this season, in contrast to his five appearances for the national team. This situation has left Page torn, as he understands the complexities involved in getting game time when politics and contractual obligations come into play.
Page revealed that he had spoken to Ward about his predicament and emphasized that it was not a case of the player not listening to his advice. He acknowledged that there are many aspects to consider when a player wants to leave a club but is bound by a contract. While Page sympathizes with Ward from a player’s perspective, he does not share the same sentiment when looking at the situation as a manager.
Despite Ward’s lack of playing time, Page remains focused on the positives within his squad. He is pleased that the majority of his players are actively playing football and performing well. The manager has dealt with similar situations in the past and intends to maintain a positive outlook. However, he acknowledges that it is challenging for Ward to stay prepared for important matches when he is not getting regular game time at club level.
Ward did make some effort to get game time by playing in a few under-23 matches. Although these games are not at the same level as senior competitions, Page appreciates Ward’s commitment to staying active. The manager believes that it is crucial for players in all positions to have a rhythm of playing games. While he has managed similar situations before, Page acknowledges that the current situation is unique due to the high number of players in his squad who are actively playing.
Looking ahead to Wales’ Euro 2024 play-off semi-final against Finland, Page is determined to have his players ready for the match. He remains optimistic about their preparation, despite some injury concerns. Wes Burns from Ipswich Town is unlikely to be fit after suffering a hamstring injury, and Joe Low from Wycombe has pulled out due to a minor hamstring issue. However, Page is confident that he will have the rest of his squad up to speed and ready for the crucial game.
In conclusion, Robert Page’s empathy for Danny Ward’s exclusion from Leicester City’s squad highlights the complexities faced by players when it comes to getting game time. While Ward remains Wales’ number one goalkeeper, his lack of playing time at club level poses challenges for both him and the national team. However, Page remains focused on the positives within his squad and is determined to have his players fully prepared for their upcoming matches.