Rob Page: Wales manager aims to encourage players in securing more playing time at their clubs through potential January transfers
Manager Encourages Wales Players to Pursue Club Transfers for More Playing Time
In a bid to boost their chances in the upcoming Euro 2024 play-off semi-final against Finland, Wales manager Rob Page has urged some of his players to consider moving clubs in January in order to secure more game time.
The lack of minutes on the pitch for key members of the Welsh squad has become an ongoing concern for Page. With crucial matches approaching, he believes it is essential that they enter these games with every advantage possible.
“We need to be proactive about this,” emphasized Page. “If necessary, we must influence some players to seek opportunities elsewhere and gain valuable playing experience. We have to prioritize ourselves and ensure our players are getting as many games as possible.”
In preparation for March’s mini-campaign aiming for qualification into the finals held in Germany, Page intends to strategize alongside his coaching staff by assessing each player’s needs and determining how fit they will be coming into camp.
Automatic qualification eluded Wales due to a draw with Turkey coupled with Croatia’s victory over Armenia. However, their hopes were truly dashed when they drew against Armenia earlier on, allowing Croatia leapfrog them into second place in Group D.
A glaring issue lies within their wing-backs Connor Roberts from Burnley and Neco Williams from Nottingham Forest who have barely managed a full 90 minutes between them since their qualifying win over Croatia back in October.
Kieffer Moore, David Brooks, and Chris Mepham from Bournemouth all started against Armenia. However, due to their lack of game time, Page felt apprehensive about starting Moore and Brooks in the subsequent match against Turkey. Furthermore, Mepham was unable to play due to suspension.
Danny Ward from Leicester City and Wayne Hennessey from Nottingham Forest have yet to see a single minute of competitive club football this season as Wales’ primary goalkeepers.
While some players may prefer staying at their current clubs and fighting for their spot in the team, finding more playing time through transfers or loan spells could greatly benefit both the individual player’s development and Page’s strategic planning for future campaigns.
“We had to make changes following Armenia,” admitted Page. “The lack of minutes certain players are receiving at club level forced our hand. Asking Kieffer, for instance, to maintain our standards on a heavy pitch just days after his previous exertions is an enormous request.”
Erol Bulut, manager of Cardiff City has expressed interest in bringing back Kieffer Moore – whom they tried to sign prior to this season – suggesting that if he were acquired again in January they would actively utilize him rather than keeping him on the bench.
Despite having alternative attacking options available, such as changing tactics or styles based on different opponents and occasions; 6ft 5in tall striker Moore remains a crucial player allowing flexibility within Wales’ gameplay approach or even altering the direction of a match.