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

Part of Wilkinson’s job is to bring through players who will fill the holes left by Fishlock, Barton and the other senior figures who remain in the squad for now but cannot go on forever, such as Sophie Ingle, Rhiannon Roberts and Rachel Rowe.

Football Association of Wales chief football officer David Adams acknowledged as much as Wilkinson’s new contract was announced.

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

Morgan says development must be the priority for Wilkinson, particularly given the shortage of Welsh players currently getting game-time at WSL level.

“I would hope her focus will be to ensure that the pathway for the next generation is being heavily invested in,” Morgan says.

“My big concern is the strength of the pathway seems to be diminishing. There is a lack of players playing at the highest level and that must be a concern for Rhian Wilkinson as she tries to compete with the top nations.”