Manchester United winger Daniel James scored the first header of his professional career for Wales last night.
James netted the only goal in a 1-0 win over the Czech Republic last night, which earned his country’s first points of their World Cup 2022 qualification campaign.
The fact that James was the goalscorer was not a surprise, but the way he found the back of the net shocked the man himself and Rob Page, who was standing in for Ryan Giggs as manager.
“I don’t remember another header I’ve scored,” said James after the game.
“I’ve had quite a few in the last month at club level that I’ve been disappointed with, really. I was due a header. It’s about getting in the right positions.
“In recent times, maybe I’ve been caught out on the wing and not got in the box enough. I’ve thought, ‘Ah, I could have gone there’. I need to get my timing right.”
Page was asked if he expected James to pop up with a header and replied: “No, not at all!”
“We didn’t see DJ (James) attacking it at the back post but what a goal – what a header. He deserves all the credit he’s going to get.”
James looks to have his confidence back after a tricky end to last season for United.
He’s a key part of a Wales side who will be looking to spring a surprise for a second consecutive European Championship, having made the semi-finals in 2016.
Last night’s goal shows his desire to work on his weaknesses having analysed and reflected on previous misses.
He missed a headed chance against Crystal Palace earlier this month, but made no mistake last night.
He’ll hope the first headed goal of his career can be the first of many for club and country.
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