Wales boss left in limbo

Page not told if he’s in charge at World Cup

WAlES caretaker manager Rob Page is in the dark about whether he will lead his side at the World Cup despite inspiring what Gareth Bale described as the greatest result in the country’s history against Ukraine on Sunday.

The former Watford defender was in charge for all of Wales’ first successful World Cup qualifying campaign for 64 years following Ryan Giggs’ arrest on assault charges 19 months ago.

However, he is yet to be informed whether or not he will take the team to Qatar this winter.

Page would have been unemployed had Wales lost the play-off to Ukraine, as his contract as assistant manager expires at the conclusion of their World Cup campaign — and he has not been offered an extension.

This is despite an impressive record that also includes leading Wales to the last 16 of Euro 2020 last summer, where they were knocked out by Denmark.

The Football Association of Wales are seemingly intent on waiting for the outcome of Giggs’ trial in August before making a decision on whether Page, 47, will be in charge in Qatar.

Page remains on the same contract he was given when he was appointed as a member of Giggs’ back-room staff, despite taking charge of the team 23 times since being made caretaker manager after Giggs was arrested in November 2020.

The Manchester United legend is due to go on trial accused of coercive behaviour and assault against his ex-girlfriend and her sister.

It appears inconceivable that Giggs would return for the World Cup even if he is cleared in court, but the FAW have been reluctant to tackle the situation.

They have not invited Page to discuss a new contract despite his achievements and new chief executive Noel Mooney appeared to give Giggs his backing after he was appointed last summer.

‘I spoke to Ryan briefly when I joined,’ said Mooney. ‘He’s on a contract with us and we had a pleasant phone call. We’re just waiting. It’s in a process and we’re waiting to see how that pans out.’