NEWPORT’S Lee Evans has been backed to force his way into the Wales squad again after injury ruined his chances of a senior debut over the past week.

The former Newport County AFC midfielder will earn the Exiles a cash instalment when he does win his first cap.

That was part of the deal that took him to Wolverhampton Wanderers in January 2013 but a hamstring injury ruled Evans out of the Euro 2016 qualifiers against Bosnia-Herzegovina and Cyprus.

Fellow Wales and Wolves man Sam Ricketts is certain, however, that County can expect that cheque sooner rather than later.

“Obviously it was disappointing for Lee with the injury and it’s a shame he missed the experience of these games because it was special,” said Ricketts.

“Lee has started the season very well. I’ve played with him for a year now and from the first day he came into the club I could see he had ability.

“He was only a young lad then, only 19, and he’s just turned 20 now but he’s adding maturity to his game.

“He played 20 or 30 games last season and he’s started very well for us this time round and deservedly got his call-up. I’m sure that chance will come again.”

Ricketts says Evans has improved as a player since his move from the Conference with County to the Football League with Wolves.

“I’ve got a lot of time for Lee; I get changed next to him and I try and guide him and advise him on and off the field,” added the 33-year-old former Bolton defender.

“You can see in his performances that he’s getting the results he deserves. He made huge strides last season and even more so this season.

“It’s a big step-up to the Championship but he’s adapted to it physically and he’s doing well in the holding role for us.

“He likes to get on the ball and his range of passing is very good.

“He needs to practice his shooting a bit because he’s damaged a few trees on the training ground but he’s starting to put a few in the goal as well!

“That’s always good for a young player because it gets you noticed. You can play the same but if you get a goal or two people take not of you and that’s probably why he got the call-up.”