World Cup qualifiers: Ben Davies back to lead Wales for crucial games

Burnley defender Connor Roberts, Wrexham goalkeeper Danny Ward and Ipswich Town’s Wes Burns are unavailable through injury as Wales struggle to find some form at the end of their group campaign.

A 4-2 defeat to Belgium last time out effectively ended their hopes of automatic qualification, while Wales now need to win their remaining fixtures to secure second place in Group J.

Looking to secure home advantage in March’s play-offs for next summer’s finals, Wales travel to bottom of the pool Liechtenstein on 15 November and host second-placed North Macedonia in Cardiff three days later in what promises to be a tough encounter.

Liechtenstein, ranked 206th in the world rankings, has yet to score a point or goal in the six matches it has played so far. Having played one match more, North Macedonia are now three points ahead of Wales on goal difference with a six-goal advantage.

Belgium is almost certain to qualify automatically; It needs only three points to complete the summit with matches against Kazakhstan and Liechtenstein remaining.

Wales can finish the group in second place by winning both of their remaining matches.

Alternatively, beating Liechtenstein by six goals or more means a draw against North Macedonia in Cardiff would also suffice.

Wales are already guaranteed a place in the play-offs via the Nations League, but they need to finish second to avoid bottom place and the possibility of qualifying for the away semi-finals.

The play-off draw will take place on Thursday 20 November, with the single-legged semi-finals and finals taking place in March.