Ramsey ‘never doubted ability’ despite Juve woe

Aaron Ramsey said he had never doubted his own ability despite his struggles at Juventus, as uncertainty continues to rise over his long-term future in Italy.

Rob Page, the Wales manager, wants to see Ramsey back in the Premier League and has said it is a “crying shame” that the 30-yearold does not play more regularly for his club. Ramsey issued another reminder of his quality with a superb individual performance for Wales in their 2-2 draw with the Czech Republic on Friday, when he wore the captain’s armband and scored the opening goal.

The midfielder has played only four matches for Juventus this season, starting once.

Yesterday he said he had received congratulatory messages from colleagues at Juventus following his impressive performance for his country, and he said he still wanted to prove himself in Serie A.

“I always want to have an impact on the game,” Ramsey said. “Things have been frustrating and have not gone to plan at certain times, but I have never doubted my ability or myself. I am contracted to Juventus and I still have a year and a half left. Hopefully I can still show exactly what I can do there.”

Wales will need Ramsey to be on top form in their World Cup qualifying match against Estonia tonight, with Page urging his side to be ruthless as they look to guarantee a play-off place by finishing second in Group E. With Belgium set to finish first, Wales are in a battle with the Czech Republic. They are level on points with the Czechs, but have a game in hand.

Page’s side were left to rue their missed chances in Friday’s meeting in Prague, as was also the case when they drew 0-0 with Estonia in Cardiff last month.

“We have got to be more clinical in our finishing and if we get the opportunities we need to punish teams,” said Page, who will once again be without the injured Gareth Bale in Tallinn.