RABBI: GARETH IS THE MASTER
By
Bale and Ramsey’s leadership qualities have been so important for the younger players. The pair have helped them grow up quickly in a tough international environment
RABBI MATONDO is learning the knuckleball secrets from Gareth Bale – a year after a knucklehead decision cost him his place in the squad.
Matondo is set to face the Czech Republic on Tuesday, as Wales seek to ride the wave from their stunning Bale-inspired World Cup play-off victory over Austria.
But, only 12 months ago, Matondo was sent home by manager Rob Page for breaking a hotel curfew, along with Hal Robson-Kanu and Tyler Roberts, and his international future was in doubt.
A year on, Matondo says he has knuckled down and is desperate to be alongside Bale for Wales at the World Cup finals in Qatar.
The quicksilver winger has rediscovered his best form on loan at Cercle Brugge in Belgium where nine goals in 13 games convinced Page the former Manchester City youngster has matured.
“There’s always a way back into the squad if you do the right things on and off the pitch,” said Matondo, who is set to return to Bundesliga club Schalke at the end of the season.
“That’s what was said – ‘Do the right things on and off the pitch and the rest will take care of itself’.
“Yes, of course, I’ve matured. I’ve gained a lot seeing all different kinds of things on and off the field. That has helped me grow and I feel I’m in a better place than I was this time last year.
“I’d say I’ve grown up a lot in the last year or so.”
Liverpool-born Matondo, 21, moved to Wales as a child and he could have no better role model than fellow Cardiff boy Bale, who is still delivering his very best for his country at the age of 32.
Bale’s breathtaking, dipping free-kick that put
Wales on their way to a
2-0 victory over the
Austrians was
TOP FORM Matondo something that Matondo, whose father played for the Democratic Republic of the Congo, himself is trying to master.
“That knuckleball technique is something
I’m trying to do when I shoot, but it’s very difficult to do well.
“Gareth is the master and sometimes when he practises, he just leaves you shaking your head.
“But the fact that he has done so much in the game – and knows so much – is fantastic for me.
“Just being in and around the camps with him over the years is special. What he has done in the game, he is just one of the greatest to do it.
“Just sharing a changing room, being around him and learning from him is unbelievable.
“He’s also a top human being as well as a footballer. What he did on Thursday night is what he has been doing for years.”
Matondo’s banishment from the squad meant he missed out on the delayed Euro
2020 finals, where Wales reached the last 16 before losing to Denmark.
Now, he and Wales stand just one memorable game away from their first World Cup finals since 1958 – a play-off final at their formidable Cardiff home against either Scotland or
Ukraine in June.
“It was tough not being there for the Euros, but everything happens for a reason.
“Now I’m here, I’m back and, hopefully, I can be part of the World Cup squad if we get there.”
Tuesday night also promises to be a landmark occasion for veteran Wales goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey, who is set to win his 100th cap.
“He’s a top-class professional, he’s got plenty of good heart and he deserves this big milestone,” added Matondo.
“To play 100 games for your country is what you dream of as a kid.”
EDDIE HOWE has vowed to help winger Ryan Fraser win a Scotland recall.
The Newcastle United star has been axed by Tartan Army boss Steve Clarke after withdrawing from their squad in November injured, but then training with his club during Howe’s first sessions in charge.
Fraser is paying a heavy price as Scotland look to qualify for the World Cup through the play-offs with a semi-final game against Ukraine postponed last week and pencilled in for June.
The winners will meet Wales for a place in Qatar.
Fraser has regained form and fitness under Howe and is worthy of a place in the first team or squad – if the rift can be smoothed over.
Howe is ready to step in and reassure Scotland that Fraser is committed and playing well.
The Newcastle boss (above, with Fraser) said: “He’s very passionate about his country and always has been. He loves his country and, even with the junior age groups, he loved going away – and that hasn’t changed.
“He wants to do well in every aspect for his club and country and I’m disappointed for him, of course, but I think Ryan is in a good place because he’s playing well.
“I’m very, very pleased with his recent performances and I know, if he continues with the consistency of what he’s delivering, then he’ll force his way into that squad.
“I’ve spoken with Steve and I’ve got a good relationship with him.
“I know how highly he rates Ryan, so I’m sure that situation will come to a positive conclusion.
“The only thing I’ll say on that is that it will be dependent on how Ryan performs, that will be the biggest factor in whether things change.”
Nathan Patterson’s Scotland form has left Everton fans wondering why he is not getting his chance at Goodison Park.
He said: “I want to play football, so being out there for Scotland for the start was great.”