‘A cruel game’
Wales denied Euros place by penalty heartbreak
qualifying campaign.
“We will rally round ‘Deej’. He had the bravery to take that penalty. I’m just so proud of that group and the nation should be proud of them. They have put a shift and some in tonight to try to get us there.
“We will be bigger and stronger for going through this horrible experience. We are going somewhere. There is something good happening with this group.
“They are so disappointed but they are hungry for it. We were nearly there, one kick away. There is a lot more to come.”
Page insisted he will take Wales forward after Football Association of Wales chief executive Noel Mooney put his position in the spotlight in October by saying the manager’s position would be reviewed if the Dragons did not qualify for Euro 2024 automatically.
Page and Mooney held clear the air talks after those comments – the 49year-old remaining in post after Wales had to settle for a playoff place that ultimately ended in failure.
“I’ve got a great relationship with
Dave Adams, the technical director,” said boss Page.
“We’ve had our issues in the past, haven’t we? It’s been well documented. But everything’s fine. Everything’s great. I think they appreciate it.
“The board, the chief exec, the president, I think they see the journey we’re on and what we’re trying to do.
“In 12 months, from retirement of senior players to introducing younger players and being one kick away from qualification. I think they see the work we’re doing and the supporters do too.”
Page defended his decision to keep Aaron Ramsey on the bench and not send on his skipper in the closing stages.
Ramsey has not started a game since September because of knee and calf issues, but played 20 minutes for Cardiff in their last game following his latest injury.
“Who could he come on and replace?” said Page. “We needed two sixes on the park and we weren’t going to take a risk in extra-time.” – The Independent