Joe Allen has defended Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey

amid criticism that Wales’ star pair have failed to deliver at the World Cup.

Skipper Bale and Ramsey have led Wales’ so-called “golden generation” to dizzying heights over the past decade.

Wales have reached a first World Cup for 64 years on the back of qualification for two European Championships, the first of which saw them reach the semi-finals of Euro 2016.

But Bale, 33, and Ramsey, 31, have struggled to make an impact at Qatar 2022 and Wales are on the brink of a swift World Cup exit.

“They’re two incredible players, they are and they have been for our country,” Allen said ahead of tomorrow’s final group game against England in Doha.

“I don’t think there’s anyone else in the squad who’s reached the heights they’re capable of.

“It’s a huge game coming up, they’re big-game players and always have been.

“Hopefully, if any criticism has come their way then they’ll be able to answer a few of those critics with a top performance.”

Wales are clinging on to slim hopes of making the last 16 after picking up only one point from games against the United States and Iran.

Friday’s 2-0 defeat to Iran has left them needing to beat England, something they have not done for 38 years, and hope for a favourable result between Iran and the USA.

Any other result than a draw in that would see Wales eliminated, unless they were to beat England by a fourgoal margin.