AliousDespite Wales suffering a 4-0 defeat away to Slovakia, Leeds United’s Ethan Ampadu earned glowing praise from BBC pundit Nathan Blake for his composed performance.
Ampadu was unfortunate to score an own goal when Lukas Haraslin’s strike deflected off him in the 60th minute.
However, Blake was full of admiration for the 23-year-old’s display up until that point.
“I do love the poise of Ethan Ampadu, for someone so young he has really learned his trade well.
He just looks so accomplished,” Blake said live on BBC Sport’s coverage.
Ampadu has undoubtedly been one of Leeds’ standout players since joining from Chelsea last summer.
The versatile talent began the 2023/24 season anchoring the midfield before dropping back to form an excellent center-back partnership with loanee Joe Rodon after Pascal Struijk’s injury.
Not only was the Welshman pivotal to Daniel Farke’s possession-based approach, completing 2,913 passes, but he also showcased his creative qualities from defense – creating 36 chances and recording 3.59 expected assists.
Defensively, Ampadu impressed as well – making 319 recoveries, including 12 times in the final third, underlining his all-round game.
Such assured displays are likely to become the norm for Ampadu, who has grown immensely since his move to Elland Road, both for club and country.
Despite the disappointing team result, the rave reviews highlight how the 23-year-old is blossoming into an accomplished talent after his first season at Leeds.
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