Happy Harry hoping to fire as U21s face a double-header

LIVERPOOL youngster Harry Wilson has been included in the Wales Under-21 squad for their upcoming European Championship qualifiers against Bosnia and Herzegovina and Romania this month.

The 20-year-old missed his side’s 3-1 win over Liechtenstein in October, Wales’ second win from their opening three matches in Group H.

But he has been selected in Rob Page’s 18-man squad for his side’s upcoming home double header, with Bosnia and Herzegovina visit- ing Bangor on Friday November 10, four days before current group leaders Romania make the trip to north Wales. Brentford centre-back Chris Mepham is also back in the squad having missed the victory in Liechtenstein through suspension.

“We want to be competitive and we want to qualify for major tournaments,” said Page.

“But I’m realistic, my job is to develop young players through to the gaffer’s first team.

“The (Ethan) Ampadus and (Ben) Woodburns of the world, and most recently David Brooks coming in from Sheffield United, is what my job is all about. We’ve got to develop these players through to the first team.

“As nice as it is to see them get their full caps, part of me does want them to be with me or help us be competitive to qualify for these major tournaments.

“Chris (Coleman) apologises to me for taking players and then I have to apologise for Paul Boden for taking the Under-19s.

“But it’s good that we’ve got that strength in depth and have these players coming through the system and like I said, Woodburn and Ampadu, they’re young lads and have another two campaigns with the Under-21s if I need them. Hopefully they’ll be with Chris’ first team and they’ll develop in that way but it’s great to see these lads progress.”

Page’s young guns are currently fourth in their group with six points from their opening three outings. SQUAD: Luke Pilling ( Tranmere Rovers), Owen Evans (Wigan Athletic), Cola Dasilva (Chelsea), Cameron Coxe (Cardiff City), Chris Mepham (Brentford), Regan Poole (Manchester United – on loan at Northampton), Rhys Abbruzzese (Cardiff City), Joe Rodon (Swansea City), Matthew Smith (Manchester City), Nathan Broadhead (Everton), Jack Evans (Swansea City), Mark Harris (Cardiff City), Joe Morrell (Bristol City – on loan at Cheltenham), Tyler Roberts (West Bromwich Albion – on loan at Walsall), George Thomas (Leicester City), Rabbi Matondo (Manchester City), Daniel James (Swansea City), Harry Wilson (Liverpool).