Allen defends Welsh stars amid criticism

Joe Allen has defended Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey amid criticism Wales’ star pair have failed to deliver at the World Cup.

Captain Bale and Ramsey have led Wales’ so-called “Golden Generation” to dizzy heights over the past decade.

Wales have reached a first World Cup for 64 years after qualification for two European Championships, reaching the semi-finals of Euro 2016.

However, Bale, aged 33, and Ramsey, 31, have struggled to makeanimpactatqatar2022 and Wales are on the brink of a swift World Cup exit.

“They’re two incredible players and have been for our country," Allen said ahead of tomorrow’s final group game against England in Doha. “I don’tthinkthere’sanyoneelse inthesquadwho’sreachedthe heightsthey’recapableof.it’sa hugegamecomingup,they’re big-game players and always have been. Hopefully, if any criticism has come their way, they’ll be able to answer 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 loss to Iran has left them needing to beat England,somethingtheyhavenot donefor38years,andhopefor a favourable result between Iran and the USA. Any other result than a draw in that would see Wales eliminated, unless they beat England by a four-goal margin.

Allen said: “It (qualification) is not impossible, no. It’s a toughtask.it’salwaysuncomfortable when it’s not in your hands and you’re relying on certain things to unfold, but while there’s still a chance it’s simpleforus.we’refullymotivated into getting the win.”