Aaron Ramsey was named as the new Wales captain on Tuesday following the retirement of Gareth Bale, as the team prepares for their opening Euro 2024 qualifiers.
The 32-year-old, who has won 78 caps, will lead his country for the first time in matches against Croatia and Latvia later this month.
Former Arsenal and Juventus midfielder, Ramsey, who is currently at French side Nice, will spearhead a youthful 24-man squad named by Wales manager Rob Page on Tuesday.
“Aaron was the vice-captain behind Gareth and I see this as a natural progression.
“He’s got a big opportunity to work with the young players. He’s in the right time of his career to lead the boys out and he is relishing it.
“I’ve spoken to Aaron. He’s very appreciative of it and he’s looking forward to the role,” said Page.
READ ALSO: Gunmen Threaten Messi, Fire Shots At Supermarket
Bale announced his retirement in January after winning a record 111 caps for Wales’ men’s team.
Ramsey has done the job before, having been appointed captain at the age of 20 by the late Gary Speed in March 2011.
Speed’s successor, Chris Coleman, gave the armband to Ashley Williams the following year.
READ ALSO: I Don’t Really Care&-Zinedine Zidane Says Ahead of Gareth Bale Tottenham Transfer
As well as the departure of Wales’ record-scorer Bale, Chris Gunter, Joe Allen and Jonny Williams have also retired from the international scene since the team’s disappointing World Cup campaign in Qatar, where they scored just once and finished bottom of their group.
Trending video of the day;
Photo Credit: Getty
