Hennessey aiming to prolong Wales career

Wayne Hennessey is aiming to prolong his Wales career for as long as possible after joining the 100-cap club tonight.

Hennessey, inset, who will wear the captain’s armband for the Cardiff friendly with the Czech Republic, becomes the third Welshman after Gareth Bale and record caps holder Chris Gunter to reach the three-figure milestone.

Ex- Wales goalkeeper Neville Southall has urged the Burnley man to set his sights on 150 caps.

“I’m not sure about

150, but that’s nice from Nev," Hennessey said. “Everyone knows what I think about Nev. He’s my hero.

“I’m just going to keep going andrepresentmycountryfor as long as I can.”

It has been a long road for Hennessey, who was released from the Manchester City academy at the age of 16 before joining Wolves.

The Anglesey-product has played more than 320 senior games for Wolves, Stockport, Yeovil, Crystal Palace and Burnley.

But being part of Wales’ success and qualifying for two major tournaments – Euro 2016 and Euro 2020 – is what

Hennessey will always be associated with.

“Every cap is special,” said Hennessey, who made his Wales debut against New Zealand in a May 2007 friendly. “Whenever I step over that white line, it’s a special occasion.

“You want to give your best, you’re representing your nation and hopefully I can do it as much as possible. Whenever I’m selected, I’ll do that.

“I’ve had so many special moments, qualifying for major tournaments.

“Through the years for Wales it never really happened. As a kid growing up it never happened. “But 2016 was special (when Wales reached the semifinals of the European Championship) and it’s come on leaps and bounds.” Hennesseywillleadamuchchanged Wales side from the one that beat Austria on Thursdaytomovewithinone win of reaching the World Cup in Qatar later this year.

Manager Robert Page has promised to make changes with the likes of Bale, Aaron Ramsey and Joe Allen set to be rested.

Page wants to give younger members of his squad an opportunity against opponents reeling from their World Cup play-off defeat to Sweden.