Wilson back in Wales squad as uncapped Duncan earns first call-up
Harry Wilson returns to the Wales squad for the Nations League games against Norway and Portugal, with young goalkeeper Joe Duncan receiving his first senior call-up.
Harry Wilson has been recalled to the Wales squad for the Nations League matches against Norway and Portugal, ending an absence from international duty dating back to March because of injuries. The Leeds United attacking midfielder, described as one of Wales' most influential players in recent years, is joined in the squad by his Elland Road team-mate Joe Rodon, who returns despite not having played since injuring his hamstring in August.
Cardiff City playmaker Rubin Colwill is also recalled, but midfielder Jordan James misses out after picking up an injury while playing for Wolves against the Bluebirds last Saturday. The sole new face is 20-year-old goalkeeper Joe Duncan, who is on loan at National League side Southend United from Championship club Bristol City. Duncan, born in Bristol and eligible for Wales through his maternal grandfather from Cardiff, has played for the Welsh Under-21s and takes the place of Everton back-up Tom King.
Craig Bellamy's side sit third in Group A4 and are aiming to preserve their place in the Nations League's top tier. Their only win in four matches so far came against World Cup quarter-finalists Norway in Cardiff last month. Wales face Norway in Oslo on Saturday, 14 November before closing the campaign at home to Portugal the following Tuesday.
A top-two finish would send Wales to the Nations League quarter-finals in March 2027. Third place would mean a relegation play-off against a League B team in March, while finishing bottom would result in either a play-off or direct relegation, depending on how results compare with other League A groups.
The squad blends established names such as Ben Davies, Ethan Ampadu and Brennan Johnson with younger options including Duncan and Jayden Lienou. Supporters will be watching closely to see whether the returning Wilson and Rodon can lift a side that still has second, third and fourth place in the group all within reach.
Image: Getty Images/FAW / BBC Sport
