Wales’ European Championship qualification play-off has been hit by a setback as winger Wes Burns has been ruled out due to a hamstring injury. The 29-year-old sustained the injury during Ipswich Town’s 6-0 Championship victory over Sheffield Wednesday.
Burns’ absence comes as a blow to Wales ahead of their crucial match against Finland in Cardiff on Thursday, March 21. With a potential final looming five days later, Wales will have to cope without the services of the experienced winger.
Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna expressed disappointment over Burns’ injury, stating, “It was a hamstring and it doesn’t look great. It certainly doesn’t look like a very minor one.” This news not only impacts Burns’ season at Ipswich but also his international aspirations.
In addition to Burns, Wales had already faced injury concerns with defender Ben Cabango, who sustained a calf problem during training. To replace Cabango, Wales called up Morgan Fox, a Queens Park Rangers full-back who is yet to earn a cap for his country.
Swansea head coach Luke Williams provided insight into Cabango’s injury, revealing, “Ben pulled up in training with his calf – it went ping…we know it’s bad enough that he can’t apply any force through it.”
Furthermore, defender Joe Low has also withdrawn from the Wales squad due to injury, adding to the team’s injury woes ahead of the crucial play-off fixture.
Despite the setbacks, Wales remains focused on their objective. If they can overcome Finland, they will advance to face either Poland or Estonia for a spot in this summer’s European Championship. The Welsh team, known for their resilience, will need to rally together to overcome these challenges and keep their Euro 2024 dreams alive.
