WALES manager Ryan Giggs confirmed he could not risk starting both Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey against Azerbaijan.
Giggs made three changes to the side that drew 1-1 with Croatia in their last match, with defender Joe Rodon and midfield pair Jonny Williams and Joe Allen suspended.
Giggs said he could not risk starting both Bale and Ramsey in the Euro 2020 qualifierCredit: AFP or licensors
And the Manchester United legend revealed he could only start Bale from the off, leaving Ramsey benched in the Euro 2020 qualifier.
Giggs told Sky Sports: “First of all the three changes; because of Jonny Williams, Joe Rodon and Joe Allen being suspended we can’t use them.
“So we had to change the team, but Aaron is looking good, but couldn’t afford really to start Gareth and himself knowing that both would not be able to finish the 90 minutes.
“Difficult decision because of the quality Aaron brings, but we’ve got quality on the pitch.”
Centre-half Chris Mepham comes into the side with Joe Morrell and Harry Wilson starting in midfield.
Wales needed a late Bale winner in the reverse fixture in Cardiff five months ago, and Giggs revealed his side are prepared for all outcomes facing a stubborn Azerbaijan side away.
He added: “We have to read the game, obviously, they have nothing really to play for.
“Are they going to press us? Are they going to sit back in their shape and frustrate us? Or try and frustrate us like they did in Cardiff?
“We are prepared for both scenarios.”
With Ramsey benched, Joe Morrell and Harry Wilson start in midfield for WalesCredit: Getty – Contributor
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
