Ben Davies has leapt to the defence of Aaron Ramsey and Gareth Bale, urging Wales fans to keep faith that the star duo will deliver one more time in tomorrow’s crucial clash against England.
Wales must beat Gareth Southgate’s side to have any chance of qualifying for the last 16 at their first World Cup in 64 years, with veteran midfielder Joe Allen admitting Rob Page’s team need the “performance of our lives” to reach the knockout stage.
While Bale scored a vital late equaliser from the penalty spot in the opening draw against the USA, both he and Ramsey have come in for heavy criticism in the wake of Friday’s dismal 2-0 defeat by Iran.
The pair have been at the forefront of an unprecedented period of success for Wales and delivered superb performances at Euro 2016 and 2020, but have so far failed to live up to past glories here.
Davies, however, insists they remain capable of producing something special against England.
“Gareth and Aaron have turned up for Wales over and over again,” the Tottenham defender said. “They have shown the quality they have and, to be honest, I don’t think we’d be here without them. To criticise them is probably very unjust. I think we have to put our faith in them and that they can do it for us one more time.”
Both have looked leggy, with Bale playing back-to-back 90 minutes and Ramsey only substituted late on against Iran following Wayne Hennessey’s red card, but Page appears to have no choice but to turn to both men again.
“They’re two incredible players,” said Swansea midfielder Allen. “I don’t think there’s anyone else in the squad who’s reached the heights they’re capable of. It’s a huge game coming up, they’re big-game players and always have been. Hopefully, if any criticism has come their way, then they’ll be able to answer a few of those critics with a top performance.”
To qualify for the last 16, Wales must either beat England by at least four goals or, more likely, win and hope the other game in Group B between the USA and Iran ends in a draw.
Allen insists the fact that tomorrow’s game will be something of a derby is no source of extra incentive.
“I don’t think we could be more motivated,” he said. “We’re in the World Cup and have to win.”
