Lewis Koumas is optimistic that his performance with Hull City will enhance his chances of being selected for Wales’ upcoming World Cup play-off campaign.
The 19-year-old secured his third goal since joining the Tigers on loan from Liverpool in January, contributing to a 2-1 victory at Wrexham on Tuesday night.
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Now, he aims to make a significant contribution as Craig Bellamy’s team readies to face Bosnia and Herzegovina in the play-off semi-final at Cardiff City Stadium on Thursday, March 26, with the victor moving on to host Italy or Northern Ireland in the final five days later.
“This is a crucial campaign for us. We’re all eager for it, and I hope we can achieve our goal,” he shared with BBC Radio Wales.
“I want to make an impression and earn my place on the team.”
Koumas’ impact was somewhat limited during his earlier loan spell with Birmingham City at the start of the season.
He made just seven starts in the Championship under Chris Davies, scoring his only goal for the Blues in a thrilling 3-2 victory over league leaders Coventry City.
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However, since joining Sergej Jakirović’s squad on loan, Koumas has appeared in all nine of Hull’s league matches, starting three of the last four.
His headed goal against Wrexham exemplified his recent improvement since moving to MKM Stadium.
“Scoring in Wales and helping the team secure three points on the road feels fantastic,” Koumas noted. “It was an important game for us, and seeing it through feels rewarding.”
“I’m really enjoying my time here at Hull. It’s a wonderful environment, and I’m feeling happy overall. I’m focused on developing and things are going well here. I’m looking forward to the rest of the season.”
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Koumas has been a consistent presence in Wales squads under Bellamy, earning seven caps in nine senior international appearances.
He looks forward to continuing his development under the guidance of Bellamy, who played alongside his father, Jason Koumas, for both Wales and Cardiff City.
“He has had a significant impact on my growth. I really admire Bellers both as a person and as a coach,” Koumas said.
“He has helped me immensely, and I hope he can keep guiding me in the future.”