Craig Bellamy calls up National League goalkeeper to Wales squad

Wales manager Craig Bellamy has made a surprise move by calling up 20-year-old goalkeeper Joe Duncan to the senior squad. The young keeper, who is currently on loan at National League side Southend United from Bristol City, is a new name in the international set-up.

Bellamy has been candid about Wales' struggle to find fresh talent in the goalkeeping department. Current regulars Karl Darlow and Danny Ward are in their 30s, and with reserve options like Tom King and Adam Davies nearing the later stages of their careers without consistent club football, the search for the next generation has become a priority.

You have to start somewhere as a goalkeeper, you have to learn your trade. I love goalkeepers playing lower leagues, especially development goalkeepers, the ones who are looking to push through. Craig Bellamy

Bellamy believes the physical and competitive nature of non-league football provides the perfect learning environment. He drew comparisons to the development paths of David Raya and Jordan Pickford, both of whom spent time on loan in lower divisions before establishing themselves at the highest levels of the game.

The Wales boss also credited Southend manager Kieron Dyer for his high regard for the young keeper. While Duncan is unlikely to be thrown into a debut against Norway, Bellamy is clearly looking to evaluate his options for the future as he seeks to bolster a position he describes as currently lacking depth.