V Chris reaches ton – and says it’s just the start
CHRIS GUNTER will make history tonight when he leads Wales out for his 100th cap and he said: “I will never officially retire from international duty.”
Gunter displaced Neville Southall as Wales’ most capped player in November 2018 on his 93rd appearance.
Now the full-back, right, who made his
30pt
debut against New Zealand in 2007, is poised to become the nation’s first
Inter
centurion in the friendly with Mexico.
It will be the biggest highlight
Blk Cond
yet for the ex-Tottenham fullback who pledges to always be there forWales if needed.
Reflecting on his landmark,
30pt Inter
the Charlton defender said: “It means everything to me. As long as Wales need me I’ll be there ready and waiting.
“If I was 39 and got a call that everyone was out injured, then who wouldn’t make themselves available?
“Sometimes when you get to a high number of caps people can forget your age and see you as old.
“I’m 31 and still feel really good – playing three times a week is not a problem. You always want more appearances and success with club and country.
“I certainly don’t feel it is something I can’t do. It is dictated by your body and not your age.” Low-profile Gunter has never been one for fuss and is not overly bothered the game is behind closed doors at the Cardiff City Stadium. But it is a big regret his best friend Aaron Ramsey is out injured because the pair go back far.
Gunter added: “In November when I came on to get to 99 he was pleased and said he would be there if I got to 100. But then he got injured. I think he’s as disappointed as I am.
“Aaron has been my best mate since we were 12 years old. I have been through a lot with him. The time we come away together to play is brilliant because we are such close friends. I am gutted he is not going to be there. We miss him on the pitch too.
“With the friendship we have he’ll be one of the most proud people for me. He’ll be watching. Hopefully in the summer, if not before, we will celebrate.”
Gunter cited his previous highlights as his Wales debut 14 years ago and reaching the Euro 2016 semi-finals.
But he reckons Wales’ latest squad is arguably the most talented. He added: “We had in the 2016 squad some top players but now potentially more strength in depth.”
WALES