Wales Women’s Football Team Names Uncapped Players for Final Group Games
Wales Women’s Football Team, led by manager Rhian Wilkinson, has announced its squad for the final group games in the European Championship qualifying. The team will face Croatia on July 12th and Kosovo on July 16th. Wilkinson has included five uncapped players in the squad, including Sunderland forward Ellen Jones, Celtic’s Amy Richardson, Bristol City’s Tianna Teisar, and two young talents from the Football Association of Wales’ north academy, Cadi Rodgers and Mared Griffiths.
The decision to bring in these young players is a result of injuries in the team and a desire to give them an opportunity to showcase their skills. According to Wilkinson, these camps serve as a chance to see the potential of younger players. Wales has already secured a play-off berth as they aim to qualify for their first major finals. However, they need two wins in their remaining group games to secure top spot and a seeded berth in the play-off semi-finals.
After disappointing draws against Ukraine last month, Wales is aware that they need to step up their game. Wilkinson acknowledges that these upcoming matches are not for experimenting and that the team is clear on what they need to do to secure victory. The draws with Ukraine were not a major setback, but they were a letdown. However, Wilkinson believes that feeling a little pain from those results will benefit the team in the long run.
Unfortunately, Wales will be without Josie Green, who sustained an injury during the last Wales camp. Green joins Elise Hughes, Hannah Cain, and Esther Morgan on the sidelines as they recover from long-term injuries. On a positive note, Wales has included their most-capped player, Jess Fishlock, along with her Seattle Reign teammates Angharad James and Lily Woodham. However, due to their club commitments, the trio will have a separate training schedule ahead of the Croatia match.
Wilkinson emphasizes the importance of rest and recovery for these players, considering the long flight to Croatia and their upcoming club game. She acknowledges the challenges they face and assures that they will miss some training sessions to ensure they are fully prepared for the games. Wilkinson expresses confidence in Fishlock’s leadership, stating that she is one of the best ever and will guide the team.
Overall, Wales is optimistic about their chances in the upcoming group games. With the inclusion of talented young players and experienced veterans, they are determined to secure top spot in their group and pave the way for a successful play-off campaign. The team has learned from their previous draws and is ready to give their all on the field.