Wales want England U21 and Championship star to switch allegiance for World Cup play-offs

Wales are reportedly in talks with Stoke City loanee Ashley Phillips over switching his international allegiance.

The England under-21 international is being targeted for a call-up ahead of this month’s World Cup play-offs.

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Craig Bellamy’s side face Bosnia & Herzegovina at the Cardiff City Stadium on March 26.

The winner of that tie will take on either Italy or Northern Ireland five days later for a place at this summer’s finals.

Phillips could be a member of Wales’ squad for those matches if the Football Association of Wales (FAW) are successful in their bid.

According to the Press Association, talks have been held regarding Phillips switching his international allegiance from England.

The 20-year-old would be included in Bellamy’s squad next week if he agrees to the switch.

Phillips is eligible to play for Wales through his Welsh mother whilst he also qualifies for Nigeria through his father.

Despite being capped by the Dragons at under-16 level, he has since represented England up to the under-21 side.

Lee Carsley handed him his Young Lions debut in September, with Phillips currently having four caps to his name.

Wales are keen to bring him into their international set-up, though, as they eye a third World Cup appearance.

Qualification would also be their second in a row for the first time ever after appearing in Qatar four years ago.

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Meanwhile, England’s under-21s are also in action later this month.

Carsley’s side face Andorra and Moldova in qualifying for next year’s Euros.

The Young Lions are currently top of their group after winning all five of their matches so far in the campaign.

Following a trip to Andorra on March 27, they will host Moldova at Carrow Road on March 31.

Phillips has enjoyed another impressive season in the Championship with Stoke.

The Tottenham Hotspur centre-back first joined the Potters on loan at the start of the 2024/25 season.

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He returned to Stoke this season and has made 31 league appearances so far this term.

Phillips has already reached 108 senior club appearances in his career.

It follows a previous loan spell at Plymouth Argyle in 2024 after joining Spurs from Blackburn Rovers aged 18 the previous year.