WALES boss Rob Page has admitted that he’d like Gareth Bale to remain involved in their national set-up.
The legendary forward announced his retirement aged 33 in January following his World Cup appearance with The Dragons.
Bale has been enjoying life since hanging up his boots, playing plenty of golf and spending time his family.
Wales boss Page named his first squad post-Bale’s retirement yesterday.
And while the former Real Madrid and Tottenham star won’t be involved this time around, Page would like him to be around the team in the future.
The 48-year-old said: “We will meet and have discussions, he is still interested. It’s been a big decision for him to make.
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“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.”
Bale earned 111 caps for his country, scoring 40 goals and firing his side to two major tournaments.
He skippered his country following Ashley Williams’ departure, wearing the armband for the final time in Qatar.
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Aaron Ramsey has been named his successor as captain, more than ten years since originally losing the armband to Williams.
Explaining his decision, Page said: “Aaron was vice-captain behind Gareth and to me it’s the natural progression.
“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.”
Page then added: “I see Ben Davies as a captain of the future and his role will be similar to that of Gareth and Aaron.”
Wales kick off their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign with a tricky trip to Croatia on March 25.
They will then host Latvia in Cardiff three days later.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
