Ethan Ampadu has been ‘cancelled’ to be banned from Wales’ match against North Macedonia

Former Wales captain Ashley Williams sympathized with Ampadu, telling BBC Match of the Day Wales: “I didn’t think Ethan Ampadu was yellow.

“He has every right to have the ball. His foot is high, and so is the other player’s foot, and… [Ampadu] He reaches the ball first. “I don’t even think it’s a mistake.”

As coach Craig Bellamy has previously pointed out, Wales don’t have many central midfielders even when everyone is available.

Therefore, the absence of both teams from the starting lineup against North Macedonia is a huge blow.

“It’s disappointing to be booked,” James said. “Don’t think about it on the pitch, they were counter-attacking and I had to stop it.

“I think we have enough in the team to win the title on Tuesday. I’m disappointed, but I will support the players from the sidelines.”

Bellamy had to watch the game from the stands in Liechtenstein because he was suspended after receiving his second yellow card of the campaign for dissent during last month’s defeat to Belgium, meaning assistant coach Piet Cremers took charge of the team in his absence.

“We will adapt [without James and Ampadu]. We have a large selection. “They’ve all played before,” Cremers said.

“It will be a difficult match [against North Macedonia]. They got some really good results. “It’s important that we create some chances and be patient.”