Ryan Wilkinson: Wales’ ‘strong female leader’ backed to break more ground after new deal

Part of Wilkinson’s job is to bring in players to fill the holes left by Fishlock, Burton and other senior figures who will be in the squad for now but won’t be gone forever, such as Sophie Ingle, Rhiannon Roberts and Rachel Rowe.

Football Association of Wales chief football officer David Adams admitted as Wilkinson’s new deal was announced.

“Ryan’s work has brought success to our national team in recent years and his role, along with other head coaches across the national team pathway, will work to ensure the successful transition of youth players to the women’s national team over the next two to four year cycle,” he said.

Morgan says development needs to be a priority for Wilkinson, particularly given the lack of Welsh players currently getting game time at WSL level.

“I would expect his focus to be making sure that the pathway is being heavily invested in for the next generation,” Morgan said.

“My big concern is that the strength of the track seems to be going down. There is a lack of players playing at the highest level and that is certainly a concern for Ryan Wilkinson as he tries to compete with the top nations.”