Cardiff City star Rubin Colwill has been impressing Wales Under-21 manager Matty Jones with his development in recent months.
The Cardiff academy graduate has been in and out of the club’s first-team squad since breaking through under Mick McCarthy in 2021, but Jones now believes that he is improving in the areas of his game that have been neglected. Colwill had been previously scrutinised by club manager Erol Bulut for his off-the-ball and defensive work, but it appears that he’s taken the criticism well.
The 21-year-old had reduced play time at the start of the campaign and even dropped down from the senior international side back to the under-21 squad. But he has been praised for his attitude and resilience despite the setbacks.
In recent weeks the attacking midfielder has played a part in his club’s positive run in the league, including a spectacular solo goal in the 2-0 victory over Bristol City in the Severnside Derby.
Future Ambition
Colwill will now be hoping to gain a starting spot in the Bluebirds starting 11, as well as find himself back in the senior Wales squad, with them two games away from qualifying for the European Championship in Germany next summer. He was included and made an appearance for Wales during their first World Cup since 1958, during the tournament in Qatar in December, showing the belief that the international setup has in his future and ability.
Under-21 boss Jones described Colwill as ‘phenomenal’ and a great attacking talent, but he needed to work on other sides of his game. “His attacking mindset is phenomenal as a player. But, as we know, the higher levels you go, every moment and every detail in every scenario is being scrutinised.
“So to be successful at the top you have to improve and develop those sides of your game as well.” said Jones.
Jones also spoke on how he can continue his international development during an interview with Wales Online. “Rob (Page) has challenged all of our players, getting senior experiences and having a career for yourself before your international career.
“Ultimately that’s a ruthless way of thinking about it, but it’s normal, because you have to get things right at your club first. It’s pleasing for us all that we’ve seen that momentum change with Rubin, he is taking more interest in areas of his game he had neglected previously,” said the manager.
“And Cardiff are repaying him for that. He’s not just coming on for five, 10 minutes at the end of games now. He is playing for 30, 35 minutes and we continue to see that grow.” added the 43-year-old.
Writer’s View
Rubin Colwill is one of the best talents Cardiff have produced in recent years, and hopefully, he can kick on and flourish both at the club and international level. He had a slow start to this season but is starting to find his form again, and is expected to play a bigger role for the Bluebirds in the second half of the season, with their potential play-off push.
In terms of international selection, he will need to be playing more regularly to gain a place in a potential European Championship squad, but will certainly be in contention if Wales are to qualify.
