| Why Tom King deserves Wales chance |
Robert Page is expected to name his Wales squad for the FIFA World Cup semi-final play-off against Austria on Wednesday. Although plying his trade in England’s second-tier, Tom King has done enough to earn a recall as reported by best online casino real money.
When King was called up for the first time to represent Cymru, he said the experience was surreal. The 27-year-old, who had a cap for England’s U17 team, qualified for Wales through his mother.
Ordinarily, King would have hoped to get a shot with Three Lions at senior level. However, he jumped at the prospect of featuring alongside the likes of Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey.
“I had a call from the Wales manager. He just said that the goalie coach had been to watch me a few times, which I was aware of. I was hoping that I had given a good account of myself on those occasions and thankfully I had and this opportunity has arisen.
“I didn’t really know how to react, I was a bit nervous at first but then I spoke to the gaffer here and he reassured me that it would all be alright and just give me a big pat on the back and said ‘well done’ and convinced me that this is just the start and we’re going to build from here and see where it takes us”.
As soon as his conversation with then Wales manager Ryan Giggs ended, King couldn’t wait to share the good news with his family.
“It’s a great honour. My family are absolutely delighted as much as I am and my teammates are all putting their arm around me. It’s just what you dream of as a kid. International recognition is something that every kid growing up being a footballer wants”.
After almost two years later, however, the 27-year-old is yet to get a cap. He’s been invited on a couple more occasions but never considered good enough for a minute. King was not even invited for the last European Championship as witnessed by online casino.
Page has shown faith in the trio of Adam Davies, Danny Ward, and Wayne Hennessey, occasionally extending invites to King when any is unavailable. He did so last November with 27-year-old replacing Covid-stricken Davies.
Last week against Exeter City, the Salford City man made a strong case for his inclusion. King stood like a wall between the sticks as both sides shared the spoils in a scoreless draw. Sam Nombe’s effort was blocked by the Welshman while Tim Dieng’s header was effectively saved.
After another well worked corner, Jevani Brown drove into the box and his low cross was met by Nombe, but King stuck out a foot to deny him. This has been the case this season.
King didn't concede thrice in his last five games. He has been one of Salford's standout performances. In comparison, Wayne Hennessey has only played 180 minutes for Burnley. Davies and Ward, meanwhile, have not been particularly spectacular when they played.
[ photo embedded from FAW Cymru ]