Leeds United midfielder Ethan Ampadu has waxed lyrical about Wales teammate and failed Whites target Harry Wilson this week
It’s a huge week in the lives of Leeds’ Wales quartet of Ethan Ampadu, Karl Darlow, Joe Rodon and Dan James. Their World Cup hopes hinge on qualifying playoffs taking place over the coming days.
First, Craig Bellamy’s men have to see off Bosnia and Herzegovina before meeting either Italy or Northern Ireland in the final to decide who makes it to the World Cup.Leeds United’s Welsh stars planning for memorable World Cup qualification with Ethan Ampadu set to impress
I’ve found it remarkable how we’re heading into April and Ethan Ampadu still doesn’t have mainstream admiration from those watching the Premier League.
Two shaky performances against Man City and Sunderland aside, he’s arguably been our most consistent player ever since this shift in formation.He was, though, back to his best against Crystal Palace and Brentford. In my opinion, he was the best player on the pitch in both games.
The task for Ampadu now is translating his imperious displays as Leeds’ captain to his Wales side. Should he prove his abilities on the international stage, he could help them to the World Cup in June.
Wales host Bosnia tomorrow evening at the Cardiff City Stadium at 7:45pmEthan Ampadu heaps praise on Wales and Fulham star Harry Wilson after Leeds United missed out on transfer
Another that Bellamy will want firing on all cylinders on Thursday night to improve Wales’ chances of progress is Fulham star Harry Wilson.
It’s Sod’s Law. You could just tell from the moment Leeds didn’t sign Wilson on deadline day back in September, he was due for an incredible run of form at Fulham.
Speaking ahead of the game, Ampadu is not at all surprised that Wilson has kicked on with his best season to date, ever since his failed move to join him at Elland Road.
Leeds United’s Welsh stars planning for memorable World Cup qualification with Ethan Ampadu set to impress“I can say personally, I’ve seen it for many years,” Ampadu told the BBC of Wilson’s current form. “We’ve all understood his quality.
“I don’t know whether it’s because he’s coming up in his last year [of his Fulham contract], that might get more attention. But, we’ve known that he can do that anyway, so for us, it’s no surprise.
“I’m not sure why it’s taken the wider audience so long to realise it, because he’s been playing at those levels. We’re all just delighted for him.”
Could Leeds United pursue free transfer signing of Harry Wilson this summer?
As Ampadu points out, perhaps Wilson’s peak form has stemmed from the motivation to put himself in the shop window this season.
He’s out of contract in the summer and it remains to be seen where he’ll play his football. If it’s not at Fulham, and Leeds remain in the top flight, surely we go for it?
Obviously, other better-placed clubs are in the running too and that leaves us fighting an uphill battle. However, our long-standing interest could help us in any negotiations.
