by Dylan James
WALES face last-placed Azerbaijan in their Euro 2020 qualifier at the Bakcell Arena in what is a must win game for Ryan Giggs’ men.
With just two more games to play in Group E, the pressure is on, with Wales needing a victory against Hungary to guarantee a potential automatic qualification.
Liverpool loanee Harry Wilson said that Wales qualifying for the Euros would be ‘just as special’ as bringing the Premier League back to Anfield.
The morale within the squad will no doubt have been boosted by the return of Juventus midfielder Aaron Ramsey, who is fit for selection after 12 months without sporting a Welsh jersey.
Ramsey said: ”I’m happy to be back, it’s been a while since the last time, so we have a chance to go through and qualify, I’m happy to be back with the boys.”
Stoke midfielder Joe Allen is out through suspension and Ethan Ampadu, who is currently playing for RB Leipzig, is expected to take on his responsibilities. With Allen’s defensive presence being so important in the way Wales operate, Giggs may even be forced to drop Ramsey into a deeper role if he doesn’t have confidence that Ampadu can fill the void.
However, Giggs faces a slight defensive injury crisis through the loss of Swansea City’s Joe Rodon, who has recently undergone ankle surgery, which leaves Tom Lockyer and Chris Mepham to choose from.
Or does Giggs bite the bullet and recall Ashley Williams? The former Everton man is currently in red-hot form with Bristol City, and recently extended his deal to the end of the season with the Championship side.
Wales are undefeated in their last five fixtures against Azerbaijan, dating back to 2004, with their most recent victory coming in September, with a sumptuous Gareth Bale header to secure the victory.
Giggs will be hoping to bring back all three points to Cardiff for their final group fixture against Hungary on Tuesday.
