Leeds United goalkeeper Karl Darlow has expressed his delight at getting his first international cap for Wales this week at the ripe age of 33.
Darlow joined Leeds last year but has been the second-choice goalkeeper behind Illan Meslier and has only made five appearances for the club thus far.
Despite being a vastly experienced goalkeeper in the Championship and the Premier League, the 33-year-old only got his first taste of international football this week.
He was called up to Craig Bellamy’s Wales squad during the break and made his international debut in their 2-1 win over Montenegro in a Nations League clash on Monday evening.
Darlow has had to wait until his 30s to get his first cap for Wales and the goalkeeper is pleased to represent his country finally.
Karl Darlow is proud and happy to represent Wales finally
He has played for clubs such as Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest but never really got a taste of international football until this week, even at youth level.
The Leeds goalkeeper conceded that playing against Montenegro was a massive moment in his career and his Wales teammates have made it easy for him to integrate into the squad.
He admitted that he felt supported by Bellamy and his coaching staff and is proud to get his first cap for Wales while playing a key role in getting a win for his team.
“It is massive for me”, Darlow said via Wales’ official Twitter feed.
“I have enjoyed the week, getting to know the lads and it has been easy to integrate into the squad with how good the lads have been.
“The manager and the coaching staff have been fantastic with me.
“I am proud and I am delighted that we got the win.”
Darlow will be back in Leeds this week and will likely be on the bench when the Whites host Burnley at Elland Road on Saturday afternoon.
