COLEMAN: MY SUCCESSOR MUST BE A WELSHMAN
EX WALES BOSS BREAKS SILENCE ON THE NEWS THAT MADE FANS WEEP
CHRIS Coleman was on hand to switch on the Christmas lights in Newport city centre yesterday – at what proved to be one of the last chances for football fans to catch the former Wales boss before he heads off to Sunderland.
Bidding farewell to Welsh football fans after his resignation from his post this week, Coleman thanked fans for their passion over the last six years.
Appearing at the Christmas lights switch-on in Newport yesterday, the 47-year-old took to the stage amid cheers from the crowd who had turned out despite the rain.
His appearance came less than 24 hours after the news broke that he had resigned from his post as Wales football manager after nearly six years.
Coleman was welcomed to the stage by Capital South Wales Breakfast presenter Polly James.
Asked for his final message to Welsh football fans before he headed to Sunderland, he said: “As much as you enjoyed it, I can promise you I enjoyed it just the same as you guys.
“We’re all passionate Welsh men and women and a huge thank you for everything you’ve given to me and the team for the last six years, you’ve been absolutely amazing. Diolch, thank you.”
Under Coleman’s guidance Wales defied expectations to make the semi finals of the European Championship in France last year.
When asked what he was going to miss most about Wales, the answer came easily and without hesitation.
“The people. The warmth of the people,” he said.
Presenter Polly thanked him for turning up to switch the city’s lights on with Mayor David Fou-weather at the event organised by Newport Now (the city’s Business Improvement District) despite his “very busy 24 hours”.
Echoing the feelings of many in the crowd, she said: “We are desperately, desperately sad to see you go.”
But Chris revealed he is today due to travel to Sunderland before he intends to take charge at their game against Aston Villa on Tuesday.
“Up and straight into it. Big game on Tuesday night against Aston Villa at Villa Park,” he said.
Prior to his arrival, the crowd that had gathered on Charles Street had been put in the festive mood with performances by X Factor finalists Jack and Joel, and Into The Ark.
Asked what Christmas was like in the Coleman household, Chris replied: “It’s very noisy – six kids, two babies and yes, I do dress up as Santa Claus.”
“We’re all passionate Welsh men en and women and nd a huge thank you u for everything ng you’ve given to me and the team for the last six years, ears, you’ve been een absolutely y amazing. Diolch, thank hank you
CHRIS IS COLEMAN