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Gareth Bale and other Wales players try and persuade Chris Coleman to stay

Chris Coleman says his Wales side have become accustomed to playing without Gareth Bale
Image: Wales players including Gareth Bale want Chris Coleman to stay as manager

Gareth Bale and other senior Wales players met with Chris Coleman after Monday's defeat to Republic of Ireland to try and persuade him to stay on as manager, according to Sky sources.

Wales' hopes of qualifying for next summer's World Cup in Russia were dashed after the defeat to Martin O'Neill's side.

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Highlights of the World Cup Qualifier between Wales and Republic of Ireland

Coleman's current contract is due to expire in the summer, and he has so far been reluctant to talk to the Football Association of Wales about a new deal.

Sky sources have been told that the Wales players decided they needed to approach Coleman, and tell him of their wish for him to stay.

Wales' head coach Chris Coleman.
Image: Coleman's current Wales deal expires this summer

Some of those discussions happened at the Cardiff City Stadium, another back at the team hotel later in the evening.

We understand FAW Chief Executive Jonathan Ford has already told Coleman he wants him to commit to a new contract, and oversee the qualification attempt for Euro 2020.

Ashley Williams of Wales looks dejected during the FIFA 2018 World Cup Group D  Qualifier between Wales and Republic of Ireland
Image: Ashley Williams of Wales looks dejected after the defeat to the Republic of Ireland

Ford wants to sit down with Coleman as soon as possible, and definitely before Wales's next friendly match, which is likely to be against Mexico or the United States in the second week of November.

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The loss to Ireland in their final World Cup Qualifier was Wales' first defeat in 10 internationals and follows the high of Euro 2016 when Coleman led the team to the semi-finals of their first major tournament in 58 years.

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