Leeds United trio of Karl Darlow, Ethan Ampadu and Joe Rodon were on duty for the Wales national team this week. The players were among 11 of the club’s stars called up during the international break.
Unfortunately for three of the Whites’ best players, they suffered a huge defeat to England on Thursday night. Ao Tanaka was also in action on Friday as Japan drew 2-2 with Paraguay.
Some of the club’s youngsters also earn callups. Rory Mahady and Charlie Crew were called up for Scotland U21s and Wales U21s respectively.
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Leeds United star names Wales U21 captain
Charlie Crew Credit: Imago
One of the Leeds youngsters who has been among the club’s best in recent years is Charlie Crew. The midfielder is one to watch for the future. But his exploits have been rewarded this international break. Wales U21 boss has named Crew as captain for their upcoming game against Belgium.
“I think Charlie’s admirable when it comes to how he’s dealt with his journey, his development, the adversities he’s faced, I suppose, even going to Doncaster and having to fight for his jersey and making the decision to stay there and again be challenged up the leagues.
“He’s a real deep-thinking, intelligent young man who we have been able to lean on this week as well.
“So we’ve included him not only in the captain’s group, but he is our captain for the game against Belgium and well-deserved as well.
“We know that he can lead, we know what he’s like within performance, setting the example and being a role model and no doubt he’ll be able to showcase that again on Friday.”
Being rewarded with captaincy at this level is yet another big step in Crew’s career. The midfielder made his official senior team debut in the last international break against Canada.
How has Charlie Crew performed on loan this season?
Crew joined Doncaster Rovers on loan this season after spending the second half of last season with the League Two side when they got promoted. This season, the 19-year old has only featured in five games for the club.
But he has shown flashes of quality – he ranks in the top 3 for tackles per game in the league for Doncaster. Going on loan for game time and experience could do wonders for the young star.
