IT’S ALL SYSTEMS JOE FOR WALES

WALES v IRAN GROUP B, KO 10AM

WALES have been given a huge boost after Joe Allen was passed fit to face Iran today.

But the key midfielder may have to settle for a role as a substitute having not played since September 17 because of a hamstring injury.

The 32-year-old (above), returned to full training this week and Dragons boss Rob Page said: “Joe

has got through his fitness test, he’s fit and raring to go and we’ve a decision to make on that what’s best for him and the team. The medical team have been exceptional and they’re the reason he’s now fit.

“We were all concerned about him because of the extent of the injury and the way he kept breaking down. He’s had to meet targets along the way, they have met every one.

“Last week they pushed him to 100 percent.

“It was a gamble because if he’d broken down he would have been completely out the tournament.

“We could have done it sooner to push for the USA game but I decided against that because, when we look at the group and the confidence we have to get out of the group, I want him for the long-term.”

Wales were among nations forced to shelve plans to wear a ‘one love’ armband for their opening game.

Germany responded by covering their mouths in a team photo before defeat to Japan. But Page (left) ruled out a similar move by his men. He said: “I want my players to focus fully on playing.”