Huge boost for Wales as Ramsey named in squad despite injury

Phil Blanche
Press Association
Aaron Ramsey is in a race against time to be fit for Wales
Aaron Ramsey is in a race against time to be fit for Wales

Aaron Ramsey has been included in Wales' Euro 2024 play-off squad despite not starting a match for six months.

The 84-cap Dragons skipper suffered a knee injury in September and was out until February, making two substitute appearances for Cardiff before picking up a calf complaint.

Despite Ramsey playing only 72 minutes since September 16, manager Rob Page has named the 33-year-old midfielder in a 28-man squad as Wales seek to qualify for a third successive European Championship and fourth major tournament in five.

They host Finland in a Euro 2024 play-off semi-final in Cardiff on March 21, with the winners at home against Estonia or Poland five days later for a place in Germany this summer.

Ramsey told Sky Sports on Saturday: "It’s coming along. Hopefully I'll be back out on the grass next week.

"I'm optimistic and hopefully I'll get back on that pitch as soon as possible.

Rob Page handed Aaron Ramsey the Wales captain's armband
Rob Page handed Aaron Ramsey the Wales captain's armband

"These play-off games at home are vital. We've had so much success over the last four tournaments.

"The expectation is on us now to keep qualifying for these tournaments."

There are also recalls for Adam Davies, Charlie Savage, Dylan Levitt, Josh Low, Rabbi Matondo, Rubin Colwill and Wes Burns in an enlarged squad.

Low replaces Tom Lockyer, who played in Wales' last Euro 2024 qualifier against Turkey in November.

The Luton defender suffered a cardiac arrest in a Premier League game at Bournemouth in December.

Wales squad in full

Goalkeepers: Wayne Hennessey, Danny Ward, Tom King, Adam Davies.

Defenders: Ben Davies, Joe Rodon, Joe Low, Chris Mepham, Ben Cabango, Neco Williams, Jay DaSilva, Connor Roberts, Wes Burns.

Midfielders: Ethan Ampadu, Josh Sheehan, Dylan Levitt, Jordan James, Charlie Savage, Harry Wilson, Aaron Ramsey, David Brooks.

Forwards: Nathan Broadhead, Rabbi Matondo, Daniel James, Liam Cullen, Rubin Colwill, Brennan Johnson, Kieffer Moore.

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WalesEuropean ChampionshipAaron Ramsey