Edwards catches Sir Alex’s eyes

Columnist David Pleat rated Edwards as one of the top six contenders for the Premiership following the Soca Warriors’ brilliant showing at the World Cup.

And he has put Edwards down as one for the future players in the top flight in England.

“Now apparently settled in the right-back position, his experience in this competition will have added massive confidence to his game.

“Against Paraguay his second-half sorties showed intelligence, both in positioning himself to intercept and speed down the touchline as he saw space ahead and in giving the correct delivery.

“When the ball needed to be played to a colleague’s feet on the edge of the box he passed it with care and when he got more advanced he crossed it with accuracy.

“It was unfortunate that his team-mates could not capitalise on his efforts,” Pleat wrote.

“One would need to watch a little closer to be more aware of his defensive qualities but the initial hybrid that emerged at Wrexham and briefly attracted Premiership scouts seems to have grown into a mature talent.

“In those North Wales days Sir Alex Ferguson paid several trips to Wrexham and it wasn’t just to see his son Darren. He was attracted to Edwards’ speed but at that stage the raw youngster might not have had the nous required for a move to Manchester United.

“Yet he has demonstrated in Germany that he may yet flourish on a bigger stage,” Pleat enthused.

Edwards isn’t fazed by the added attention on him both abroad and at home since the World Cup showing.

“You always want to be on the big stage and when the chance comes then you want to try to do your best.

“I think we all did ourselves proud but it was disappointing that we didn’t progress to the second stage,” he said.

“But at the same time we have a lot going for us at this stage and I hope we can all benefit as a nation, as a team and as individuals.

“I always have ambitions to move on to bigger things and if the opportunity comes along I am sure the right decision will be made,” Edwards said.