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Wales Online
Wales Online
Sport
Tom Coleman

Rob Page explains why he named Aaron Ramsey his Wales captain and the role Gareth Bale could yet play

Rob Page has named midfielder Aaron Ramsey as his new Wales skipper.

Ramsey has fulfilled the role of vice-captain on several occasions, and replaces Gareth Bale in taking the armband, following the forward's retirement from professional football.

Nice midfielder Ramsey is now the most-capped outfield player in the squad, and Page believes the 32-year-old was the natural choice to take over as skipper.

READ MORE: Rob Page names four uncapped players but no Cardiff City stars as Wales prepare for new era

"Aaron was vice-captain behind Gareth and to me it's the natural progression," Page said.

"While we've still got someone of his quality in the squad it was the natural decision.

"Aaron took it hard after the World Cup like we all did. But there was no doubt whatsoever about his future and wanting to play for Wales."

Tottenham star Ben Davies was another possibility considered by Page, with the defender set to take over as vice-captain.

"I see Ben Davies as a captain of the future and his role will be similar to that of Gareth and Aaron," he added.

It's the first squad to be announced without talisman Bale, but Page says he still hopes the former Real Madrid star will be a part of his side's plans soon, although a place on the coaching staff is not currently on the table and Bale won't be involved in the current camp.

"We will meet and have discussions, he is still interested. It's been a big decision for him to make," said Page.

"He still wants to be involved in whatever capacity it is. As long as I'm here I'd like Gareth to be a part of it.

"We appreciate his value and what he can offer. It's strange, Gareth was an unbelievable servant and player and he will be missed."

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