Liam Cullen Returns to Swansea City Following Impressive International Performances for Wales

Despite a recent scoring drought for Swansea City, Liam Cullen, 25, is anticipated to bring heightened confidence to Luke Williams’ squad as they prepare to host Leeds United on Sunday. His return to club responsibilities follows a notable period representing Wales. Cullen earned his sixth international cap as a substitute in last Saturday’s goalless draw against Turkey, subsequently starting in Tuesday night’s match against Iceland. Operating in a position behind the centre-forward, a role he has occasionally filled for Swansea this season, Cullen netted his initial two goals for Wales. This contributed to Craig Bellamy’s team’s 4-1 comeback victory, which secured their promotion to the top tier of the Nations League. He was recognized as the player of the match against Iceland, additionally providing assists for second-half goals scored by Brennan Johnson and Harry Wilson. Prior to this autumn, Cullen had made limited impact on the international scene; however, the Pembrokeshire-born player’s trajectory has shifted considerably under head coach Craig Bellamy. Bellamy commented, “He’s been so good. He has so many good habits.” He further added, “I said to him when came on the other day, ‘you do not fail to impress me’.” Bellamy continued, “He constantly impresses me every minute I see of him in training and even in the meetings. You know when you just see someone who’s staring at the screen listening to every word you’re saying? That’s him.” Further commendation for Cullen came from former Wales striker Nathan Blake, who stated that the Swansea academy product “has come of age.” Blake elaborated, “He looked brilliant in that number 10 role, he got lost a bit in the first half hour of the game but after that was excellent.” Swansea team-mate Ben Cabango, who also featured in the starting lineup against Iceland, remarked, “he deserves it all because he’s been working so hard. I’m buzzing for him.” Cullen currently stands as Swansea’s leading scorer this season with three goals, despite not having scored at club level since mid-September. This weekend, he may encounter international colleagues Joe Rodon, Dan James, and Charlie Crew, and potentially goalkeeper Karl Darlow, as he endeavors to score once more.