Sweden 2009 – How integration between levels could shoot Wales to a finals tournament for the first time in 50 years.
The Welsh Under-21 side, who hammered France 4-2, need two wins from three remaining qualifying games to guarantee reaching the Euro 2009 play-offs. This new era for the Under-21 side under Bryan Flynn is even more impressive considering in 2002 they ended a 26 game win-less run!
To make this dream a reality John Toshack plans to move five or six of his Welsh players down to the Under-21’s, such is the importance placed on these vital matches. These players include Chris Gunter, their star performer in recent international matches, the established Welsh number one goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey as well as Neil Eardley, Lewin Nyatanga and David Cotterill.
Every single player who qualifies for the U21s, including seven who helped Toshack’s team to a 3-0 win over Norway earlier this month, will be officially registered for the Under-21’s for the vital matches.
This Welsh Under-21 side could well take Euro 2009 by storm. If they qualify, Toshack plans to send the internationals previously mentioned as well as Gareth Bale and Joe Ledley, the seven having 75 full caps between them!
Below these already established youngsters there are players such as Aaron Ramsey, Ched Evans, Jack Collison and Joe Allan ready to make sure the Welsh qualify for Euro 2009.
Misread one of the players as Neal Ardley. Was going to say he might be a bit past it!
Having looked it up, he’s actually Cardiff Youth Academy manager, so he’s helping Wales in one way!