Wales football team news

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Wales football news - May 2002.


High expectancy Over the past four months we have seen a victory and two draws against what was undeniably quality opposition. So, what can we expect against Finland in September? Mark Hughes has stressed the importance of a solid defence. He has achieved this with a back line, which is becoming more confident and more difficult to break down with every game, add to this the attacking power up-front and manager Hughes must be looking for a positive result in every game. The build up has been sensational but the real test starts in Helsinki in September. It is expected that over a 1000 supporters will make the trip to Finland. The team faces eight competitive games over a thirteen-month period and this level of support can only boost their confidence. Thursday, May 30th 2002.

Confident FAW Following the 1-0 win over Germany, manager Mark Hughes is bound to attract interest from many clubs looking for an ambitious manager. However the FAW are confident that he will remain as manager up until the end of Euro 2004. Since being released by Blackburn, the question on everyone's lips is whether the manager's job will be enough for him? Des Shanklin president of the FAW is "totally confident" that Hughes will be in charge in September and for many years to come. He admits that the FAW are keen to get Hughes to confirm his commitment to Wales and hopefully to take the job full time. The FAW believe Mark Hughes' ambition is to do well and to complete the job he has started. Hughes can easily double his Ł100,000 plus salary in club football, so it will be an anxious time waiting to see what his next move will be. In light of the German result - and the two impressive draws against Argentina and the Czech Republic - I think Mark will be excited about our chances. Des Shanklin I am committed to Wales, I want to see out my contract. Improvements have been made and I want to be the one who benefits from them. I have always been professional. - Mark Hughes Thursday, May 16th 2002.

What now for Sparky? Mark Hughes has confirmed his commitment to Wales, he is vowing the see out his contract with the FAW. He has dismissed as "speculation" recent reports linking him with the then vacant manager's job at Preston. His current contract at Blackburn Rovers ends on June 1st and he admits he has still not decided what his next move will be. He believes he can carry on another year or so even and wouldn't mind dropping to a lower Division if it was the right club. So what does the future hold for Mark Hughes? Only time will tell. I didn't apply for the job and I wasn't interviewed. I am enjoying the role I have with Wales - Mark Hughes Friday, May 3rd 2002.