Chris challenge to ‘golden generation’

CHRIS COLEMAN last night challenged Wales’ ‘Golden Generation’ to make more history in their pursuit of World Cup glory.

Second-placed Wales can still win Group D – and automatic qualification to next summer’s World Cup finals in Russia – if they overcome the Republic of Ireland and leaders Serbia fail to beat Georgia at home tonight.

But it is more likely Wales and the Republic will be contesting second spot and the right to feature in next month’s play-offs.

It is an opportunity that Wales manager Coleman does not intend to spurn as he looks tofollow reaching the semi-finals of Euro 2016 by securing the nation’s first appearance at a World Cup for 60 years.

“They were labelled the golden bunch of players before we qualified for the Euros,” said Coleman ahead of the Cardiff clash.

“I fought against that because they hadn’t earned that tag, but they’ve earned that now. They’ve gone one step further than anyone else, but that’s in the past.

“Whatever we’ve done, we’ve done and it won’t help us on Monday.”

Wales will once again be without the injured Gareth Bale, who watched his team-mates train at the Cardiff City Stadium on Sunday.

And Coleman dismissed fears of a grudge match after what happened when the two sides met in Dublin last March.

Republic captain Seamus Coleman had his leg broken by a challenge from Wales defender Neil Taylor in the goalless draw and has not played football since.

“What happened to Seamus was unfortunate, but I don’t think it will have a bearing on this game,” Coleman said.

“It will very be similar to the game in Dublin where two sets of committed players were locking horns. It’s as big as anything we’ve been involved in, but there’s nothing to fear and worry about the occasion.”