In the build up to Euro 2016, ThatsMags.com will be profiling Euro 2016 Shanghai Fans from all 24 countries taking part in the tournament in France. Hoping Euros debutants Y Dreigiau don't go gently into that good night is British Consul General John Edwards.
Wales, Group B
Opponents: Russia, England & Slovakia
Odds: 80/1
Greatest moment ever?
Wales beating the World Champions Germany in 1991 at the Racehorse Ground (I wasn’t actually there, of course; I watched it on telly). Neville Southall booted it up the entire length of the pitch, missing out the Merthyr Tydfil midfield, straight to Ian Rush. One touch and in (below). I was manager of the Virgin Atlantic Team that guest starred Ian Rush about ten years later when he came to Shanghai. Had to sub him off as he’d been on the tequilas all night.
Click here to read our pre Euro 2016 qualification interview with Ian Rush
Greatest Euros moment?
If you are referring to the finals, then that is a typically insensitive question. But if you include the qualification stages, then probably beating Israel away 3-0. Started to think we might actually do it this time. That or overtaking England in the FIFA rankings (briefly) last year. Up 70 places in just three years.
Worst moment ever?
Listening to Ian Rush on television saying that Michael Owen would “probably come to regret” choosing to play for England rather than Wales and thinking that, on reflection, that was highly unlikely. That or not qualifying for two successive World Cups on goal difference.
Worst Euros moment?
You’re really labouring the point aren’t you? We’ve never qualified. Even when it was proven that our opposition’s 'midfield dynamo' in the 2004 play-offs was running on a little bit more than just vodka and patriotism. Maybe we should just focus on the present?
Where you and your countrymen (and women) will be watching it in Shanghai?
Mostly at home, unless it’s deep into injury time and we’re four goals up against the English. Then I’ll put on the shirt, hide my English accent, deny I was born over the border and be straight down The Shed.
Song the fans sing?
Mae Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau. The only one you need to know. Or that can be printed in a family magazine.
Biggest rivals?
Do you really need to ask?
Star Man?
I hope you are not suggesting that we’re a one-man team? I’m not going to rise to it. Even if Bale does a Chris Coleman, loses his passport and misses the plane we’ll be absolutely fine.
One to watch?
Gillingham’s finest, George Williams (above). Pace to burn. Eager to show what he’s got on the big stage.
Bad Boy?
Wales has, admittedly, had a few of these over the years. Who hasn’t YouTubed big Johnny Hartson’s training ground altercation with Berkovic (below)? And I am aware that not everyone was a fan of Robbie Savage or Craig Bellamy. But, honestly, this squad doesn’t have an obvious wrong ‘un.
Boy Blunder?
This relentless focus on the negative is one reason why I prefer City Weekend. You’ll look back at this line of questioning when we are European champions and, rightly, feel a little bit sheepish. (That wasn’t an invitation for a rubbish joke.)
Heart Throb?
Difficult one. I can’t see my way past Gareth Bale but I am aware that both Ashley Williams and Aaron Ramsey have their fans.
So what are your chances?
Genuinely? Who knows? Wales have had plenty of world-class players before – Rush, Giggs, Hughes, Speed, Toshack, Charles – but never a squad as strong as this. Fingers crossed.
Want to write about your country? Email us at editor@urbanatomy.com.
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