I selected team, so buck stops with me, says Page

ROB Page took full responsibility for the selection calls which led to Kieffer Moore replacing Daniel James during Wales’ 1-1 World Cup draw with the United States of America.

Wales’ wastefulness in possession was proving costly in the opening 45 minutes and the USA took full advantage when Christian Pulisic threaded through for Tim Weah to slot beyond Wayne Hennessey.

Bournemouth frontman Moore was summoned from the bench for the second half, with Fulham loanee James making way, and made a telling impact as his holdup play was pivotal in helping the Red Dragons advance up the pitch and retain possession.

Page revealed USA’s press was different to how he envisaged, which ensured he had to make the substitution at the break at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium.

“I take responsibility for that,” Page said post-match. “Nothing against Daniel James at all. The way they played in the past, I thought we could play through the middle and play beyond their front three when they press. They changed the press.

“We didn’t get any of the players on the ball and we were getting wave after wave of attack. He made a massive difference for us. Lessons have been learned from today. It was important we didn’t lose the game.

“The good thing we’ve got, if you look on the bench now, we’ve got Brennan [Johnson] playing in the Premier League, he came on and made an impact, Kieffer came on and made an impact.

“We have strength in depth, I can look over my shoulder to the bench and we’ve got players who can come on and have a real impact on games.”

Bale led a speech in a postmatch huddle with players and staff following the conclusion of the draw with Gregg Berhalter’s side as Page’s men go in search of victory against the Iranians on Friday.

The captain believes Wales’ second-half showing in Qatar warranted a share of the spoils.

“The goal was exactly what we needed, it didn’t matter who scored it, it gave us a foothold in the game.”