As reported by Wales Online, Wales manager Ryan Giggs has revealed why he has brought Rangers defender Declan John back into the national team fold after a near four year absence.
What’s the story?
Before recent friendlies against China and Uruguay, John had not featured for Wales since 2014, but his move to Rangers appears to have been the driving force behind Giggs selecting the left-back for the friendly double-header, alongside the likes of Harry Wilson, who also came into Wales’ plans after an extended absence.
As quoted by Wales Online, the Manchester United legend said:
“They had power in their legs, the fitness, and that makes a big difference. When you’re in and out of the reserves or the first team or you’re training with the first team but not playing regular first team football, it has an effect. Harry and Declan are seeing the benefits of playing week in, week out because you can’t beat playing competitive first team games. You get in a rhythm and that’s part of the reason why I started a lot of the players because they were in that rhythm of playing regularly. A lot of our players aren’t playing regularly and it makes a difference.”
After making his loan move from Cardiff City to Rangers permanent in January, can John develop even further at Ibrox and become a mainstay for Giggs’ Wales side?
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How much potential does he have?
When he first arrived at Ibrox last summer, many thought John would simply be back-up for the likes of Lee Wallace in the Rangers set-up, but he’s quickly made the position his own and even the return of the club captain from a lengthy injury may not be enough to oust the Wales international.
Showing he is as adept in attack as he is in defence, the 22-year-old has thrilled Rangers fans on a consistent basis this season, one of the few bright spots in another disappointing season.
If he can continue to play regularly then his game can improve even more and given he is clearly rated by both his club and international managers, he could go on to reach a higher level than the Scottish Premiership.