Jack Collison: The real work for Chris Coleman’s Wales starts now; first game is a must-win
Ex-West Ham midfielder knows his former nation can go far at Euro 2016 but says they must start strongly against Slovakia
Sponsored by
BOASTING a fantastic record throughout qualification, you could say Wales' momentum has somewhat slowed, with Chris Coleman's men managing only one win in their last seven games.
A 3-0 defeat to Sweden fresh in the minds, you could even argue that confidence is low in the camp. However, this is far from the truth.
Instead, the defeat has galvanised this young squad and supplied a timely reminder that qualification for the tournament is already a distant memory and the real hard work starts now.
Let's be honest, this group of players are getting an opportunity to do what the likes of Ryan Giggs, Gary Speed and Craig Bellamy could only dream of, and Chris Coleman has made his troops fully aware of that.
This is a group of players bound by a wonderful team spirit, a never say die attitude and passion running through its veins.
It's a squad of young, hungry players, inspired by a superstar in Gareth Bale.
With Slovakia on the horizon it's essential Wales have Bale firing on all cylinders.
No doubt he will be a marked man throughout the tournament, but Wales will need their star man just as much as Bale needs his team-mates.
Coleman will look to keep it tight at the back, possibly adopting a back-five against England, a tactic that has fared well so far.
Throughout qualification, a constant has been Wales ability to block shots, defend for their lives and capitalise on any mistakes at the other end.
RELATED STORIES
Ashley Williams has been another shining light for the Welsh over recent times and his leadership skills have been evident at the heart of the Welsh defence.
His style of play has inspired others around him and provided the likes of Bale and Aaron Ramsey the freedom to attack at will.
One concerning factor for Coleman will be his team's ability to create chances, especially if Ramsey and Bale are covered closely.
Who can be the one to step up and provide this Welsh side with that much needed creativity?
For me the answer is simple, and it comes in the form of a little magician named Jonny Williams.
The Crystal Palace man his struggled with injuries over the past few seasons but there is no doubting his ability and Coleman is very aware of what he has at his disposal.
Fearless in possession, easy on the eye and a real vision to sniff out those penetrating passes, Williams has every tool to become an integral part of Coleman's' plans.
The pre-tournament talk will all be surrounding the England game, however Coleman knows how important the first game is against Slovakia.
Three points from this and the England game will be an added bonus, but a loss in the first game and the clash with the Three Lions will be an all or nothing shootout.
Excitement in the air, mixed with a tinge of optimism, I fully believe this Wales team have the ability to qualify from the group.
Beyond that every game is a bonus.
I for one cannot wait for the Euros to start. Bring it on.
