Jordan James insists depleted Wales will not be overawed when they line up against “the best players in the world” in their Nations League A opener against Portugal on Thursday.
A Wales squad already missing the likes of Joe Rodon and Dylan Lawlor has been hit by the withdrawals of Karl Darlow, Nathan Broadhead and star man Harry Wilson.
Having returned to the top tier of the Nations League by winning their League B group in 2024, Wales begin what looks like being a demanding campaign as they meet a star-studded Portuguese side in Lisbon.
Portugal can call on a string of star names including Ruben Dias, Joao Cancelo, Nuno Mendes, Vitinha, Joao Neves and Bruno Fernandes, not to mention 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo.
But Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder James says Wales will have “no fear” as they go in search of a first win since last November’s World Cup qualifying triumph against North Macedonia.
“Obviously they’re the best players in the world at the end of the day, you can’t really sugarcoat it,” James said.