Why Chelsea loanee Ethan Ampadu would have no issues playing in defence or midfield for Sheffield United this season

Ethan Ampadu would have no problems with being asked to anchor Sheffield United's midfield in the Premier League this season after insisting, on international duty with Wales: "I'm willing to play anywhere".
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Ampadu, on loan at United for the season from fellow top-flight side Chelsea, made the admission ahead of tonight's Nations League clash against Bulgaria in Sofia, which will see Ryan Giggs' side looking to extend their unbeaten start to life in League B4.

Wales have not yet conceded a goal in Nations League action, and top the table. But they will face Bulgaria tonight without former Blade David Brooks, who has withdrawn from the squad due to injury.

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Midfielder Joe Morrell is also ruled out, which may see Ampadu shifted into midfield.

But the 20-year-old insisted: “I can play as a centre-back or in a holding role in central midfield.

“Personally, I don’t have a preference. I feel more than comfortable playing any of those positions.

"As a player, I’d like to think that I’m first of all versatile, that I’m comfortable, I feel like I’m a player that likes to get on the ball and start attacks and build from there.

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"I’d like to think that I bring high energy. I know I’m young, but I like to think that I can make good decisions on the ball and help teams start from the back.”

Wales' Ethan Ampadu appears frustrated after the final whistle against Ireland: Brian Lawless/PA WireWales' Ethan Ampadu appears frustrated after the final whistle against Ireland: Brian Lawless/PA Wire
Wales' Ethan Ampadu appears frustrated after the final whistle against Ireland: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Ampadu, though, could have to revert to centre-half for his club this weekend, when the Blades face Fulham at Bramall Lane. John Egan may have to self-isolate after being identified as having contact with a Republic of Ireland teammate who tested positive for Covid-19 last week.

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