Striker included in Wales senior squad for the first time...
Walsall manager Dean Smith has praised Tom Bradshaw after the striker was called up to the Wales senior squad for the first time.Bradshaw has been included in Chris Coleman’s 23-man squad for Wales’ international friendly against the Netherlands on Friday, 13th November.
And Smith was delighted to see Bradshaw, our nine-goal top scorer, rewarded for his hard work at club level.
"I’m really pleased for him and I did expect it,” said Smith.
“With them qualifying and having a friendly, it gives them a chance to look at players who have been on the periphery and Tom has been one of them.
“It’s warranted because he’s played really well.
“His record since he’s been here has been very good and he’s been on the standby list for a long time so he fully deserves it.
“He’s been excellent for us and his all-round play, work rate, work ethic and the tactical side of his game have all got better since he’s been here.
“It’ll be a great experience for him, especially playing against a team like the Netherlands.
“And with Wales having a few injuries, it’ll be an opportunity for him to show them what he’s about on a higher stage.
“It’s pleasing as well that the football club is getting recognition for our players and for what we’re doing.”
Wales manager Chris Coleman, who has guided the Dragons to next summer’s Euro 2016 finals, was also full of praise for Bradshaw.
“Tom has done very well at Walsall, already notching up nine goals this season,” said Coleman.
“On the back of us losing some of our strikers (Gareth Bale and Hal Robson-Kanu), he has got the nod.
“I’m pleased and delighted for him. He is there on merit.”