The New Saints goalkeeper Connor Roberts has travelled with the Cymru squad for their training camp in Alicante this week.
Craig Bellamy’s side are preparing for their FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Liechtenstein and Belgium next month.
Roberts will retire from football at the end of the season, having won the domestic treble – the JD Cymru Premier, JD Welsh Cup and Nathaniel MG Cup – in his final campaign at TNS.
Last week, the 32-year-old bravely and powerfully opened up about how his mental health struggles have taken their toll on his playing career after his father passed away two years ago.
“Connor is someone I have been aware of for a while and has been on the cusp of being involved over the last year,” Cymru Head Coach Craig Bellamy said. “He is a resilient and hard-working person both on and off the pitch.
“What he has achieved in Welsh football is admirable and his retirement will be a big loss to the game in Wales. His call-up is well deserved and he will have a positive impact on camp this week with the rest of the squad.
“I look forward to working with him, and I hope the experience is one that Connor will treasure as he transitions to life outside of playing.”
A six-time U21 international, Roberts was previously called up to the Cymru squad by Chris Coleman in June 2014, while playing for Cheltenham Town. He also has one Cymru C cap to his name.
However, he becomes only the second player to be called up to a Cymru squad while in the JD Cymru Premier – after Barry Town’s Gary Lloyd in 1997.
“I would like to thank the manager and the FAW for giving me this incredible opportunity,” Roberts said. “From a small phone call and being here in a day – I’ve quickly seen why the players have bought into what the coaching staff are implementing.
“Thank you to my club, TNS, as without them and our achievements of this season, this certainly wouldn’t have been possible.
“I shall cherish every minute, and again, I’m so grateful for this opportunity,”
