Four starts since Karl Darlow arrived at Leeds United 14 months ago sum up why, he admits, he would like to play more for the Whites under Daniel Farke. The 33-year-old made his debut for Wales this week, despite that lack of domestic game time, and he has his eyes on now making the 2026 World Cup.
When Darlow arrived from Newcastle United in July 2023, he arrived with hopes of ousting Illan Meslier, who had endured a year of poor performances in relegation from the top flight, as Elland Road’s number one. However, four league matches into his second season, Darlow remains Farke’s number two behind the Frenchman.
After winning his first cap for Wales, Darlow was asked if his lack of game time in West Yorkshire was an issue for him in his quest to play more for Craig Bellamy’s side. The goalkeeper said it was not an issue for him, though he would like more playing time, because of the work he has done on the training ground with club and country.
“That’s not an issue for myself,” he said. “Yes, I want to play more, of course, but [with] the work that goes on on the training ground, I know how dedicated I am to my profession and how I work day in, day out.
“Coming here, with the goalkeeping coach, Martyn Margetson, who’s renowned for being a top-class goalkeeping coach, it has helped me this week as well. I had a confidence going into the game I was ready and I know I touched on everything I needed to.
“There was no doubt in my mind I could go out there and put on a good performance.”
Darlow may have made his Wales debut at 33, but he said the possibility has been there in the past, though it did not suit him at various points earlier in his career. He was pleasantly surprised to get the call from Bellamy ahead of this international break.
“I probably thought this door was closed,” he said. “I was delighted he wanted me here and we came together at the right time.
“We have similar ambitions. I’m not getting any younger. It’s a World Cup I’d be desperate to be part of and if I can help on the way and on the journey and be a part of that squad, then that’s something I’ll look back on my career and be super proud of.”