Wales manager Craig Bellamy has named a 28-man squad for the nation’s return to the top tier of the UEFA Nations League, handing a first senior call-up to Cardiff City forward Cian Ashford while confirming the absence of key defender Joe Rodon.
Rodon Ruled Out as Wales Prepare for League A Gauntlet
Wales have been drawn in League A alongside Portugal, Denmark, and Norway, but they will face the challenge without first-choice centre-back Rodon. The defender has been ruled out with a hamstring injury, compounding defensive concerns. Fellow centre-back Dylan Lawlor remains sidelined with a long-term knee issue and has yet to feature this season, while Cardiff City teammate Ronan Kpakio is also unavailable.
Ashford Earns Maiden Call-Up After Strong Championship Start
The standout inclusion is 21-year-old Ashford, who has impressed during the early stages of the Championship season with Cardiff City. He joins an attacking pool that also includes Liverpool’s Lewis Koumas. The call-up comes as Isaak Davies and Rubin Colwill miss out through injury.
Experienced Returns Bolster Midfield and Defence
Bellamy welcomes back several established names who missed the June friendlies against Ghana and Romania. Leeds United winger Harry Wilson and Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Jordan James return from injury, as does Swansea City defender Ben Cabango.
There are also recalls for forwards Mark Harris and Liam Cullen, alongside a notable return for 10-cap winger Wes Burns. The Leicester City player could make his first international appearance since 2024.
Davies Targets 101st Cap After Injury Comeback
Captain Ben Davies retains his place in the squad. The 33-year-old defender had not played since suffering a serious ankle injury with Tottenham Hotspur in January but has recently returned to action for his club. He is now in contention for his first international appearance since October 2023, when he won his 100th cap.
Fixtures Schedule: Portugal Opener in Extended Window
Wales begin their campaign with a trip to face Portugal on 24 September, the first of four fixtures in a newly extended international break. A home match against World Cup quarter-finalists Norway is sandwiched between two encounters with Denmark.
Andrews Misses Out Despite Oxford United Form
There is no place in the squad for midfielder Kai Andrews, despite an impressive start to his loan spell at Oxford United under manager Aaron Ramsey. Andrews is on loan from Coventry City.
