AliousEthan Ampadu will wear the captain’s armband for Wales for the first time in their friendly against Slovakia tonight.
The 23-year-old insists his experience as Leeds United’s captain this season will help him take on the new leadership role seamlessly at international level.
While regulars like Aaron Ramsey and Ben Davies are absent, Ampadu steps up despite his relatively young age, having already earned 51 caps for Wales.
However, he says nothing will change in his approach regardless of the armband.
“It’s a big opportunity and I’m very grateful, a really proud moment for me and my family,” Ampadu told reporters.
“But we’ve still got a game to win. I wore the armband for Leeds in the second half of the season, so that’s probably eased the nerves a bit.”
“Though I’m captain, I’ll just try to do what I do every game, not be different just because of the armband.
That’s how it should be. I’ve been fortunate to play under great captains to learn from at Wales and my clubs.”
Despite his young age, Ampadu is already a very experienced player, having been involved in first-team football since 15. His maturity and leadership qualities saw Leeds boss Daniel Farke trust him as skipper with regular captain Liam Cooper absent.
Ampadu captained Leeds at Wembley in their heartbreaking playoff final loss to Southampton. Afterwards, he vowed on Instagram: “We will be back. Gutted to end it like that but massive thanks for your support this season.”
Taking on the Wales captaincy caps an eventful first season at Leeds for Ampadu after joining from Chelsea.
His prior armband experience and mature approach beyond his years should serve him well in the new international role.
Alious
