Teenage kicks for Dragons
ROB PAGE is taking two teenage rookies to Qatar to prepare for life when Wales’ old guard finally stand down.
Boss Page has chosen Fulham’s Luke Harris, 17, and Birmingham’s Jordan James, 18, to be embedded in the squad.
He is mindful Qatar may be the last major tournament for Gareth Bale, Wayne Hennessey, Aaron Ramsey, Joe Allen and Chris Gunter, who are all in their 30s.
Page wants uncapped Harris and James to familiarise themselves with Wales’ training and culture for the future.
He said: “We brought them into the last camp and were really impressed.
“It is important now we have one eye on the future. I want to expose Luke and JJ to the environment and get them training with us on and off the pitch.
“So then in March or in the future, whenever the senior boys decide they don’t want to play for Wales anymore, it won’t be too much of a culture shock.”
Midfielder Harris has made two appearances as a substitute for Fulham in the Premier League this season, while Birmingham midfielder James has made 16 appearances in the Championship.