The Premier League is currently on its first of three international breaks before 2025 is over, with matches in September quickly followed by breaks in both October and November.

The Whites have various players in action representing their nations at senior and youth level. You can view a full list of matches involving our first team and academy players, here.

First up, we look at an important win for Wales which saw Karl Darlow start in their World Cup qualifier away in Kazakhstan on Thursday afternoon, at the Astana Arena.

His Leeds United teammate Dan James was on the bench, accompanied by youngster Charlie Crew, who is currently furthering his first team experience on loan at high-flying Doncaster Rovers in Sky Bet League One.

The first half saw the Welsh number 1 have very little to do, with his side well on top in the game. Kieffer Moore opened the scoring from a set-play for a 24th minute lead, which would see Craig Bellamy’s side take a one-goal advantage in at half-time.

The second half proved to be a much busier encounter. Darlow made a stunning save after just seven minutes of play to tip Galymzhan Kenzhebek’s curling effort onto the crossbar and behind.

Then in the 63rd minute, James entered from the bench to take up his position on the wing, wearing the number 20 shirt.

The hosts piled on the pressure in search of an equaliser but once again Darlow would produce, making an excellent near post save this time to deny Ramazan Orazov’s powerful strike as the clock kept ticking.

In added time the Welsh stopper was once again called into action, coming and claiming crosses as the home side sent everything and everyone forward, but the ‘keeper stood firm for his side with the full-time whistle sounding.

Following an important win and clean sheet, this result now leaves Wales top of Group J in the race to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. They will be in action again on Tuesday in a friendly against Canada.