Leeds United: Welsh media react to ‘class’ Whites players in Wales Euro 2024 qualifying win v Finland
Four Leeds United players played an integral role in helping Wales beat Finland in a European Championships qualifier on Thursday (21 March).
Connor Roberts, Joe Rodon and Ethan Ampadu all put in solid displays after starting and playing 90 minutes, while Dan James came off the bench to score the fourth goal in the 4-1 victory.
David Brooks, Neco Williams and Brennan Johnson also got on the scoresheet for Rob Page’s side as they set up a playoff showdown with Poland on 26 March.
Roberts was handed a 7 rating by Wales Online after it claimed the right-back made some “decent defensive interventions” early on in the game as he benefitted from having Southampton loanee Brooks in front of him.
The news outlet handed Rodon a slightly better score, giving him an 8 for being a “dependable operator” throughout the night as he was singled out as the best of the three Welsh centre-backs.
Although Ampadu was labelled as having a “quiet outing” in midfield, it said he went on one surging run to start an attack and “showed his class” later on in the game with a good range of passing in the victory to earn a 7 rating.
James was applauded for his contribution off the bench as he was handed an 8 rating for stretching the game late on and pouncing on an error from a Finnish defender before rounding the keeper and slotting the ball into the net in Cardiff.
Leeds United players on form for Wales
It was an excellent night for the Leeds players with Wales as each of them played an important role in helping their side pick up a victory.
It was interesting to get a look at Ampadu in midfield after he’s recently been playing alongside Rodon at centre-back at Elland Road.
It was a tidy performance from the 23-year-old as he showed some nice touches and broke up play well, allowing the attacking players freedom to get forward in front of him.
While James only came off the bench for Wales, he certainly made an impact as he capped off what was a superb result for his country.
The winger will now be hoping to join the rest of his Whites teammates in the starting lineup when they play Poland next week.
In other Leeds United news, the Whites are ready to sell a midfielder for £10.3million after what he told the media.
For more Leeds news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.