Karl Darlow: Leeds United goalkeeper on the verge of committing to Wales

Leeds United goalkeeper Karl Darlow is expected to feature in new Wales manager Craig Bellamy’s first-team squad.

Wales will play Turkey at Cardiff City Stadium in the Nations League on Friday 6 September, before travelling to Montenegro on Monday 9 September.

The 33-year-old has long been a target of the Football Association of Wales (FAW) and is now said to be planning to commit his international future to Wales, with the squad announcement expected to take place on Wednesday morning.

Darlow was born in Northampton and is eligible for Bellamy’s selection through his grandfather, Ken Leek, who played 15 times for Wales in the 1960s, scoring five goals.

Darlow, who also played for Nottingham Forest and Newcastle United, and had loan spells at Newport County, Walsall and Hull City, previously turned down the chance to feature for Wales in 2013 and 2018.

However, the arrival of another experienced goalkeeper is a major boost for Wales as options in goal continue to dwindle.

Free agent Wayne Hennessey is recovering from a long-term injury and Darlow could provide competition for Leicester City’s Danny Ward.

Martyn Margetson has joined Bellamy’s new Wales coaching staff as goalkeeping coach, having left the same role with England. Darlow will have the chance to work alongside the vastly experienced former Wales, Manchester City, Huddersfield Town and Cardiff City goalkeeper.

Darlow could become the fifth Wales international in the current squad at Elland Road, joining team-mates Ethan Ampadu, Daniel James, Joe Rodon and Charlie Crew.