I NEED A BIT MOORE OF AN ADJUSTMENT
WALES match-winner Kieffer Moore admits he must change his game after being booked for a third straight international fixture.
The 6ft 5in Cardiff frontman will now miss Wales’ penultimate World Cup qualifier at home to Belarus next month.
Moore, who made his international debut in 2019, took his tally for Wales to seven after scoring the only goal in Estonia on Monday night.
But he has more yellow cards after amassing nine in 23 appearances.
He has often attracted unwanted attention from referees for his dominant aerial style, which saw him also go in the book in the 2-2 draw in the Czech Republic last week.
In a bid to avoid scrutiny from officials, Moore is now even trying to head the ball without using his arms for leverage.
“It is frustrating,” admitted Moore. “It is not ideal but it is down to me to adapt.
“In internationals, referees never really give you too much leeway. It is about adapting to that.
“I am super-conscious every time I go for an aerial challenge. I just get my body there and mentally try not to do too much. It takes some getting used to.”
Moore was even penalised after a second-half clash in Tallinn which left him with a bloodied nose and later saw him subbed with blurred vision.
He claims he is often unsure why he even gets cautions. Asked why he received his latest yellow card, Moore replied: “I couldn’t tell you. I put my arms by side. You would have to ask the ref. I know they will be having words on the side when these challenges are happening.”
Moore’s absence against Belarus will at least be offset by skipper Gareth Bale’s anticipated return from a hamstring injury.
Wales need four points from their final two games to clinch second spot in Group E and a better play-off draw.
Moore, who will be eligible to play against Belgium in their final game, added: “We have missed Gaz. He is our talisman and we can’t wait to have him back.”
Wales’ successfully deployed a 3-5-2 formation in Prague and Tallinn. But boss Rob Page admits he may change it next month to utilise Bale.
Page said: “I have been pleased with it for this camp but it might be different for the next one. You want all your players fit and then you pick a formation.”