Wales boss explains decision to call-up ‘incredible’ Bristol City defender

The 21-year-old could make his international debut next month - which could help his prospects at Bristol City.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

Rob Page has said that he was impressed by Bristol City defender Joe Low after giving him his first Wales call-up.

Low was a surprise inclusion in Page’s 25-man squad for their EURO 2024 qualifiers with Armenia and Turkey in June. The 21-year-old who has made two senior appearances for the Robins to date - had been on loan at Walsall, for five months, and is hopeful of making it at Ashton Gate.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Low has only had a short break - and featured for City’s Under-21’s in their defeat to Sheffield United. He was involved in a training camp last week, with a mix of players not involved in the EFL play-offs, and was able to force his way into the squad.

“I worked with Joe a few years ago with the younger age groups,” said Dragons boss Page in his squad announcement press conference with BBC Wales Sport.

“He was a presence then. The way he has developed over the last couple of years has been incredible.

“The benefit of having that camp last week. We had the Under-21’s on camp and I’ve said, moving forward I want us to be on camp with the 21’s so we can get close eyes on the players.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“He impressed me last week, that was his opportunity to shine and he did. His physicality, his defending, his attitude and his presence. He ticked a lot of boxes.”

Joe - son of Josh Low, who played for Severnside rivals Cardfif City, and other clubs, will take great benefit from the experience and it could help his prospects at City. Nigel Pearson is on the search for a new centre-back but given Low has been recognised by an international manager, he could save the club money in the transfer market this summer.

Low is unlikely to make his senior bow - given those ahead of him. Centre-backs Ben Cabango, Chris Mepham and Joe Rodon, all play at a higher level but Low can act as cover should any of them pick up an injury or suspension.

Page said: “Okay we might not need him throughout the camp, but it’s important to expose him to our environment.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Get him up with our players and test him a bit to give him an introduction to what first-team life is like.”

Wales face Armenia at the Cardiff City Stadium on June 16, before travelling to play Turkey on June 19. Low will undergo a training camp in Portugal, and shortly after the international period, he will report back to pre-season training at the High Performance Centre.

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.