DO WE WANT JOE BACK? WE SURE DU

ETHAN AMPADU says Joe Allen would be welcomed back into the Wales fold should the midfielder come out of international retirement ahead of Euro 2024.

Wales are one win from reaching a third successive European Championship, as they prepare to host Poland in a play-off final at Cardiff City Stadium tomorrow night.

Allen called time on his distinguished Wales career in February 2023 after winning 74 caps and playing at three major tournaments.

But the Swansea veteran (above) said last week he would “never say no” to Rob Page if the Wales manager asked him to come out of international retirement for the Euros.

“I think if someone was to say no they’d be lying,” Ampadu said when asked if the Wales squad would welcome

Allen’s return.

“That’s not really down to me, that’s down to the gaffer and Joe. I know everyone would welcome him back.”

Leeds captain Ampadu (above) has emerged as Allen’s natural heir in the Wales midfield and won his 50th cap in the play-off semi-final victory over Finland on Thursday.

Allen was working as a pundit on the game for Welsh television but said last week he would make himself available for a potential Euro 2024 return, though he does not expect a call from Page.

“Of course if he asked me I would never say no,” Allen said. “But I don’t think a phone call will come. There is so much strength in the team – the young players are doing a really good job – and if they get us through to Germany they deserve the chance to play in Germany.”

Allen turned 34 earlier this month and said when he retired from Wales duty that “time and injuries take their toll” and that he was ready to “make way for our next generation”.

The former Liverpool midfielder has suffered an injury-hit season, starting only five games for Swansea.

Birmingham’s Jordan James, who does not turn 20 until July, has become a midfield regular alongside Ampadu since Allen’s retirement.