Welsh Manager Backs Ramsey for Championship Challenge

Wales manager Rob Page has affirmed that captain Aaron Ramsey still has much to offer as he encouraged the midfielder to focus on preparing for another demanding Championship season with Cardiff City. Ramsey, who endured a season marred by injuries for both club and country since his return to Cardiff City last summer, faced speculation regarding his future in international football following Wales' Euro 2024 exit in a penalty shootout defeat to Poland. Despite these challenges, Page expressed confidence in Ramsey's capabilities, stating, "He is our captain at this moment in time, he wants to get his body into a position where he is fit and can cope with the demands of Championship football which is not easy." The 33-year-old midfielder, a seasoned player with accolades including three FA Cup wins with Arsenal and a Serie A title with Juventus, struggled with injuries last season, making few appearances for Cardiff and Wales. However, Page emphasized Ramsey's potential, noting his skill and experience make him a valuable asset. Page acknowledged Ramsey's frustrations with his injury setbacks and emphasized the importance of the midfielder preparing for the upcoming Championship season. While Ramsey's future in international football remains uncertain, Page indicated that discussions regarding his continuation in the national team will take place at a later time. In addition to Ramsey, Wales' summer plans also face uncertainty with doubts surrounding the availability of Tottenham Hotspur's Ben Davies for upcoming friendlies against Gibraltar and Slovakia. Davies, who captained Wales in Ramsey's absence, has been dealing with a calf problem that could impact his participation in the national team fixtures. Page highlighted the need to prioritize players' well-being and collaborate with clubs to ensure their fitness and recovery are managed effectively. With the squad announcement for the friendlies scheduled for the end of May, decisions regarding the inclusion of Ramsey and Davies will be made following careful consideration of their physical condition. As Wales prepares for their upcoming matches, the focus remains on supporting players like Ramsey and Davies in their recovery and readiness for the challenges ahead, highlighting the importance of a strategic approach to managing player fitness and well-being.