Why Chelsea's Ethan Ampadu says Sheffield United loan spell made him a better player ahead of Euros test with Wales

Still only 20 years of age, Ampadu is preparing for this summer’s European Championships by playing under his third manager for Wales – a fellow former Blade in Robert Page, who has taken over from Ryan Giggs.

He, like the rest of United’s tightly-knit squad, had to deal with the shock departure of Blades boss Chris Wilder during last season, and doesn’t feel that Page standing in for Giggs as he prepares for a court case will have much effect on his country’s Euros hopes.

“There is always change in football, whether you are a player or manager,” Ampadu said.

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“Pagey was here anyway, and everyone gets on with him. To be honest, things have stayed the same. We were building something special and that has stayed the same.

“Everyone’s expectations have stayed the same and we are still aiming for the same goal.

“I feel I have developed a lot as a player over the past year. I learned how ruthless the Premier League is. You make even half a mistake and the opposition often scores. But I was playing a lot and I learned a great deal.”

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Amapdu is expected to win his latest Wales cap tonight when Page’s men face world champions France in Nice.

“I was fortunate enough to make my debut against France and what a game that was to be involved in,” Ampadu added.

“You look at that France squad and it was stacked with a lot of quality. It was my first time being around an international squad so it was special memory. Now, they still have an unbelievable squad.

“It’s a game that both teams are going to try to use as preparation for the Euros. There will be a lot of quality on the pitch, so it will be a high quality game.”

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