Rhiannon Roberts' Column Debut
In her first column for , Rhiannon Roberts shares her insights on Wales' forthcoming World Cup qualifying double header against Albania. She reflects on the evolving squad dynamics and expresses enthusiasm about representing her country once again in Wrexham.
The previous training camp was crucial for the team, highlighting the unity within the group.
"Against Czech Republic, it's a valuable point for us - it was never going to be an easy place to go as they are ranked higher than us."
Following that, Wales secured an impressive victory against Montenegro in Llanelli, maintaining their unbeaten streak and earning three important points.
With consecutive camps, the team has had little downtime, which Roberts notes as beneficial.
"When you're out of it for a bit too long and back into club mode, you can sometimes forget the little things, so it's really nice to be back in so soon."
For the current camp, the focus remains on performance, but securing points is paramount.
"We want six points out of these two games and we want to finish top of the group. That's our aim."
Changing of the Guard
Roberts acknowledges the unusual feeling when long-standing players are no longer part of the squad.
"It's always going to feel a bit strange when you see the same faces for more than 10 years and then, all of a sudden, they're not there. It is quite strange."
She pays tribute to recently retired players such as Jess Fishlock and Kayleigh Barton, as well as Helen Ward before them, recognizing their significant contributions to Wales' progress.
"Without them, we wouldn't have had the success we've had."
Roberts emphasizes the necessity for the squad to evolve and for new players to step in.
"We create a nice environment for anyone to come and step in. It's really important for us to make the new players feel welcome and feel settled as quickly as possible."
As a senior squad member, she describes her role as a steady presence and a source of support for teammates.
"I've always been quite level-headed and a player that people could come to if they need any help or advice. I try to lead the team in the best way possible."
She notes that despite the departure of key figures, leadership continues with others stepping up.
Roberts highlights the emergence of young talent pushing the squad forward.
"Mayzee Davies is such a great person to have around, she's so talented and I can't wait to watch her flourish."
She also praises Mared Griffiths, a teammate at Sunderland, for her development and confident performances.
"She's just playing with freedom, you can see she's really enjoying herself at the minute because she's putting in fantastic performances for club and country."
Roberts expresses her excitement about the potential of these younger players.
"I can't stop smiling when I speak about them and I'm just thrilled to see what the youngsters can bring."
She credits manager Rhian Wilkinson for her significant impact on the team.
"Rhian Wilkinson has been massive for us. She sets us targets and expects the best out of us."
Roberts appreciates Wilkinson's approach to rotating the squad and providing opportunities, especially during this transitional phase.
Welcome to Wrexham - Wales Edition
Roberts shares her enthusiasm for the upcoming game in Wrexham, highlighting the importance of playing across different regions of Wales.
"I have to admit, I've been so excited for the game in Wrexham. I just love playing up north and I think it's really important for us to travel around Wales and be visible for the whole of the country."
She reflects on previous matches held in Cardiff, Swansea, Llanelli, and Newport, noting the challenges fans face traveling south.
"It can be really difficult for people to travel down south to watch us all the time so I think it's really important go to up north when we can."
Roberts describes the Stok Cae Ras stadium as a compact venue capable of generating a strong atmosphere.
"It's a nice small, compact ground. I feel like you can really pack it out and get a really good atmosphere."
She draws parallels with the men's team, praising the environment and fan support in Wrexham.
"Just look at the men's team, it's such a great environment and atmosphere to be around."
Roberts also acknowledges the north's contribution to football talent through local academies linked to clubs such as Manchester United, Everton, and Liverpool.
"The north of the country has produced some very good footballers too, and you have all of those academies where youngsters are coming through as well."
She concludes by expressing eagerness to play in front of the passionate supporters known as the Red Wall in Wrexham.
"So I think it's really important for us to be visible in the north and I can't wait to get back on that pitch in front of the Red Wall in Wrexham."
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