Craig Bellamy will manage his first friendly as Wales U21 boss, having previously only overseen competitive fixtures in the Nations League and World Cup qualifiers.
The match presents an opportunity for squad experimentation, with Bellamy hinting that more players could earn their first caps. This follows the impressive senior international debut of 19-year-old Cardiff City defender Dylan Lawlor in Kazakhstan.
Uncapped players in the current squad include Lawlor’s club teammates Ronan Kpakio and Joel Colwill, along with Coventry City midfielder Kai Andrews.
“We want to play the best teams,” Bellamy said. “Every game I’ve had to this date has always had points and qualifying riding on it. But now this game with Canada really fitted us. And the opportunity to play England at Wembley? Never underestimate it. That’s amazing.”
He stressed that such fixtures are crucial for instilling a high-intensity playing style and professional habits.
“I want every game to be tough, every game to be intense,” Bellamy explained. “If we don’t do that against these types of teams, we’re going to get hurt. That’s why these games are so important; we have to have the right habits.”
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