Horne: Harry our ‘Welsh Foden’

HARRY WILSON is “the Welsh Phil Foden” after his masterclass against Finland helped give Rob Page’s side a dream shot of the Euro 2024 finals.

That is the view of Wales legend Barry Horne.

Poland and their world-class striker Robert Lewandowski stand in the way of a third consecutive Wales appearance in the European Championship finals, but former Wales captain Horne believes Wilson and company can triumph in Tuesday’s play-off final after banishing the ghost of Red Dragons superstar Gareth Bale.

“You can’t replace Bale one-onone.

“You need the whole attacking unit to do what Gareth used to do on his own,” he said.

“I have been really impressed with Harry Wilson.

“Together with Brennan Johnson, Dan James and David

Brooks, he has come to the party following Bale’s retirement. Harry has benefited from finding somewhere he feels at home in Fulham.

“He is playing regularly and in a team which is creative with an attacking edge.

“He reminds me a bit of Phil Foden (left) – he has football intelligence, takes up good positions and uses the ball well.”

Although Horne admits Poland will carry a bigger threat than

Finland, the pace in the Wales team, together with the Red Wall, a packed out Cardiff City Stadium, could make the difference.

“Wales have players who can hurt you with pace.

“Rob Page also has more players who are regulars now in their respective sides which helps,” Horne added.

“Wales have a great record at the Cardiff City Stadium and, with the Red Wall in full voice, that could be absolutely crucial.”