Wed Jun 07, 2023 8:37 am
Wales U21s boss: It's a privilege to have Colwill
Wales under-21s boss Matt Jones has spoken highly of Cardiff youngster Rubin Colwill ahead of their Euros opener against Denmark this month.
Colwill, who went to the World Cup with the senior squad, of course, has featured prominently in Rob Page's plans in recent years, but a season plagued with injuries has really hampered the playmaker's progress.
As a result, the 21-year-old has been brought back down into the age-grade squad this month. But Jones said he has thrived in that environment.
“It's the right time to support him,” explained Jones. “March was an excellent chance to integrate him into the group and for him to showcase those role model behaviours he has learned from the senior environment and being involved with the Euro finals and the World Cup. There was a lot of story-telling around that and he embraced his opportunity. He was fantastic.
"I didn't envisage him being with us that long, but unfortunately Rubin has had some niggles and we have to support him. I feel privileged to have someone like Rubin in the squad, and hopefully it will allow him to build up his fitness. It's a cultural change for us, and we want players to feel it's normal to play in your own age group.”