BBC pundit ‘not surprised’ by what Craig Bellamy did to Leeds’ Ethan Ampadu in Liechtenstein vs Wales
Leeds United’s Ethan Ampadu was a crucial figure as Wales claimed a much-needed World Cup qualifier win against Liechtenstein.
Back at Elland Road, Daniel Farke is under crushing pressure as Leeds manager, with the Whites sitting just one point above the Premier League relegation zone after 11 matches.
Joe Rodon has been vital to Leeds’ success, albeit in very small portions, but his defensive teammate always seems to steal the spotlight when the duo are away with their national team.
Following Ben Davies‘ withdrawal from the squad due to injury, Craig Bellamy needed someone else to step up and lead the team out at Rheinpark Stadion on Saturday, 15 November.
Ethan Ampadu handed the captain’s armband vs Liechtenstein
Bellamy decided that the best course of action was to hand the captain’s armband to Ampadu, but that was hardly a shock as the 25-year-old is already beyond half a century of caps.
Speaking live on BBC Radio Wales, transcribed by BBC Sport (15 November, 4:53pm), Iwan Roberts said: “Ethan Ampadu is captain tonight. I always thought he was captain material.
“I’m not surprised that Craig [Bellamy] has given him the armband in the absence of Ben Davies,” with Ampadu winning his 59th cap for his country since September 2017.
With the talented midfielder wearing the captain’s armband back at Elland Road, it was never going to be a difficult choice, and it just shows how highly both managers think of him.
Leeds United star’s performance by numbers for Wales
Ampadu was absolutely everywhere in Liechtenstein, from popping up on the edge of the penalty area before sprinting back to break up any counterattacks for the minnows.
He remained calm under pressure, completing 89 per cent of his passes against a well-drilled defence, one chance created, 67 per cent of his ground duels won, and six recoveries [FotMob].
The midfielder was even able to continue after a big clash of heads in the first half, showing just how determined he was to bring all three points back to Cardiff.
Sadly, having picked up a late yellow card, the midfielder will now be suspended for the clash against North Macedonia on Tuesday, 18 November, joining Jordan James.