Regan Poole makes long-awaited Wales debut

The 25-year-old played the full 90 minutes in the 4-0 friendly win against Gibraltar in Wrexham ahead of Sunday’s key Euro 2024 qualifier versus Croatia in Cardiff.

Poole, who went up against former Undy forward Jamie Coombes when he came off the bench for the visitors in the closing stages at the Racecourse, seemed destined for stardom in 2015 when he left the Exiles for Manchester United.

He made just one brief substitute appearance – a 2016 Champions League tie against Midtjylland – and had loan spells with Northampton and County.

Poole moved to MK Dons after being released by the Red Devils, then was a success at Lincoln before moving to Portsmouth this summer.

He was called up by Ryan Giggs in 2019 but finally made his international bow under Page, and has a taste for it.

“It’s always been my aim to win that cap,” said Poole. “I’m 25 and I’ve had to wait a little while to get it, but hopefully there are many more to come.

“I had the experience of playing for the under-21s a few times and got called up there. It went quiet for a little while, but I’ve had a really positive start for my new club and hopefully I can stay in the squad.”

Regan Poole in action for County against Manchester City

Poole became County’s youngest ever player in 2014 after making his debut at the age of 16 years and 94 days, a record now held by Sonny Lewis.

His exploits caught the attention of Premier League clubs and he eventually headed for Old Trafford for a £100,000 fee, with attached add-ons taking it to a potential £500,000.

“I was at such a young age when the move came about,” said Poole. “It was such a shock, but it was something I had to do. I look back on my time there and they improved me so much as a person and as a player.

“I don’t regret it in a way because I had to do it. I loved my time there and I think it’s showing now how much they improved me.

“I was training with such good players and that’s shown in my career.”

On his brief time as a United first-team player, Poole added: “That’s something I look back on with great pride.

“I know it was only one game but I can say that I played for Manchester United and not many people can say that. So I look back on that and think ‘well done’.

“I believe I can play in the Premier League. If you don’t think that, you’re in the wrong sport.”

Former Undy forward Jamie Coombes in action for Gibraltar against Wales and Tom Lockyer (Image: Press Association)

Poole was joined in the second half against Gibraltar by former County midfielder Josh Sheehan, who came on for his fifth cap, while ex-Undy forward Coombes came on for the visitors with 20 minutes to go.

The 27-year-old played for the Gwent club on loan from Gibraltar Premier League club Lincoln Red Imps in 2017/18 when studying in Cardiff.