Karl Darlow set for shock international switch while stuck behind Illan Meslier at Leeds United
Karl Darlow is in line to receive a call-up to the Welsh national team despite being “stuck in the reserves” at Leeds United, according to Alan Nixon.
The Sun journalist reported via his Patreon on 25 August that the 33-year-old is set for a “shock” international switch under Wales boss Craig Bellamy.
The keeper qualifies through his grandfather but reportedly rejected the chance to play for Wales when hoping to get a call-up for England whilst at Newcastle and Nottingham Forest.
Darlow has only made five appearances for the Whites since signing last summer as he has been unable to dislodge Illan Meslier.
Craig Bellamy set to call up Leeds United keeper for debut
At this stage of his career Darlow is surely more likely to jump at the chance of making his international debut for Wales than he apparently was previously.
His arrival at Elland Road last year came during uncertainty over Meslier’s future at the club so he may well have expected to become the new number one.
That hasn’t happened since the Frenchman remains in place, with Darlow making just two Championship appearances for the Whites last season.
His only outing so far this term was the dismal 3-0 defeat by Middlesborough in the Carabao Cup, despite Meslier flattering to deceive already during a difficult start to the campaign.
In theory Darlow is only one injury away from stepping into the top role but Alex Cairns’ arrival this summer has complicated matters, with the new signing preferred on the bench for the 2-0 win over Sheffield Wednesday on 23 August.
It would be no surprise if the veteran took up the offer to join Bellamy’s squad, and he might also be interested if a club came in to offer him a new start as well.
In other Leeds United news, an international ace has got himself involved in a major drama after trying to force through a “dream” move to Elland Road before the deadline.
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