by Callum Ellis
RYAN Giggs has named his first squad ahead of the China Cup next week – but it doesn’t include Aaron Ramsey.
The new Wales boss, who replaced Chris Coleman as manager in January, announced his squad for the competition on Thursday afternoon.
Arsenal midfielder Ramsey, who scored for the Gunners in their Europa League clash with AC Milan last week, will miss the trip to Nanning.
“We’ve been in discussions with Arsenal and Aaron over the last couple of weeks,” said Giggs.
“He’s got a small procedure, it’s an ideal time to get that done in the international break. It’s a blow obviously because he’s a quality player, but it’s the best thing for the future.”
Youngsters Ethan Ampadu, Ben Woodburn and five uncapped players are included.
Wales face the hosts in their opening game at the Guangxi Sports Centre, while Uruguay play the Czech Republic in the other side of the draw.
Giggs confirmed Real Madrid star Gareth Bale will travel with the squad, while 20-year-old Christopher Mepham earns his first call-up.
“He’s exciting. Just getting feedback off Pagey [Robert Page] the under-21s coach, and he’s been delighted with his progress. He’s played a lot in the last couple of months for Brentford and he’s someone who we want to look at. Hopefully he’ll progress through this tournament and the rest of the season.”
As Giggs prepares to blood the youngsters, the former Manchester United assistant confirmed midfielder Dave Edwards has retired from international football. Edwards played a significant role in Wales’ success in the 2016 European Championships, but has decided to call time on his international career.
“I’d like to thank him for everything he’s done for Wales. A tremendous servant to the country.”
Sheffield United midfielder David Brooks, who won his first cap against France last year, will join up with Rob Page’s U21s after his recent illness.
“David has glandular fever so he’s just finding his feet. He scored in his last game for Sheffield United so I’m delighted with that. We just felt that with the long trip to China, it just wasn’t right for him.”
Giggs also revealed he is hoping to guide Wales to China Cup glory, and confirmed Everton defender Ashley Williams will retain the captaincy for the foreseeable future.
“Looking short-term, I want to win the China Cup but also I’m looking long-term towards the Nations League first game against the Republic. I’ve been to China on lots of occasions and the fans are fanatical so it will be a great trip in regard to seeing a different part of the world.
“Ashley’s still the captain and I don’t see any reason to change. He’s been a brilliant servant, both as a player and as a captain so there’s no reason to change. Obviously, he’s getting towards the end of his career so it’s something I’m going to have to look at in the near future.”
The Wales squad in full: Wayne Hennessey, Chris Maxwell, Michael Crowe, Ashley Williams, James Chester, Ben Davies, Chris Gunter, Neil Taylor, Declan John, Connor Roberts, Ethan Ampadu, Tom Lockyer, Joe Allen, Joe Ledley, Lee Evans, Andy King, Ryan Hedges, Chris Mepham, Marley Watkins, Tom Lawrence, Gareth Bale, Ben Woodburn, Harry Wilson, Billy Bodin, Sam Vokes, Tom Bradshaw.
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