JOE ALLEN has announced his return to the Cymru international football squad, reversing his decision to retire from international play. The veteran midfielder will be involved in Cymru’s upcoming Nations League double-header against Iceland and Montenegro.
Allen, who had stepped away from international football in February 2023, cited “time and injuries” as the reasons for his departure. However, he has been convinced to return by new manager and former teammate Craig Bellamy.
With 74 caps to his name, the 34-year-old has yet to start a match for Swansea this season, having made only a handful of substitute appearances for the Sky Bet Championship side. Reflecting on his retirement under the previous management of Rob Page nearly 20 months ago, Allen remarked: “Playing for Cymru has been a great passion and love in my life. I have been extremely fortunate. Our nation’s support is inspiring, and it has given me immense pride to wear the shirt… so many unforgettable experiences. Unfortunately, time and injuries take their toll, and so it’s time for me to make way for our next generation. The future of Welsh football is bright.”
Allen’s status as one of Cymru’s greatest midfielders is unquestionable. He played a pivotal role in Cymru’s remarkable journey to the semi-finals of Euro 2016, earning a place in the official team of the tournament. He also represented Cymru at Euro 2020 and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, although injuries limited his impact during the latter competition.
Bellamy has announced a 25-man squad for the upcoming fixtures, with Cymru travelling to Iceland on 11 October and hosting Montenegro in Cardiff three days later. Allen’s return is particularly timely, as fellow midfielders Aaron Ramsey and Ethan Ampadu have been ruled out due to hamstring and knee injuries, respectively.
Additionally, Sheffield United defender Rhys Norrington-Davies rejoins the squad after being absent for over two years due to injury issues. Bournemouth attacker David Brooks and Ipswich duo Nathan Broadhead and Wes Burns are also returning after missing the start of the Nations League campaign.
Bellamy commenced his tenure last month with a commendable 0-0 draw at home against Euro 2024 quarter-finalists Turkey, followed by a 2-1 victory in Montenegro in Group B4.
The full Cymru squad for the Nations League fixtures against Iceland and Montenegro is as follows:
- Goalkeepers: Danny Ward (Leicester), Adam Davies (Sheffield United), Karl Darlow (Leeds)
- Defenders: Rhys Norrington-Davies (Sheffield United), Owen Beck (Blackburn, on loan from Liverpool), Ben Davies (Tottenham), Joe Rodon (Leeds), Chris Mepham (Sunderland, on loan from Bournemouth), Connor Roberts (Burnley), Neco Williams (Nottingham Forest)
- Midfielders: Joe Allen (Swansea), Joe Sheehan (Bolton), Daniel James (Rennes), Ollie Cooper (Swansea), Sorba Thomas (Nantes, on loan from Huddersfield), Wes Burns, Nathan Broadhead (both Ipswich)
- Forwards: David Brooks (Bournemouth), Brennan Johnson (Tottenham), Harry Wilson (Fulham), Kieffer Moore (Sheffield United), Mark Harris (Oxford), Luke Koumas (Stoke, on loan from Liverpool), Luke Cullen (Swansea)
