Wales manager Chris Coleman praises his side ahead of Euro 2016 game with Russia
Monday 20 June 2016 20:10, UK
Wales manager Chris Coleman says his players are in a “fantastic position” as they prepare to face Russia with the target of qualification for the knockout stages of Euro 2016.
Coleman's side won their opening Group B game with Slovakia 2-1 before losing to England by the same scoreline.
Coleman admits his side failed to keep hold possession of the ball adequately against England but otherwise he is delighted with how his team is progressing, insisting they have performed beyond all expectation.
"We were critical of ourselves when we analysed it [the England game]. Not because we didn't turn up, I thought our players were magnificent.
"Out of possession, we were absolutely fantastic. It's just we can be better in possession of the ball, we were disappointed with that.
"But on the whole, you have to look where we are, look where we're sitting. We are at our first major tournament [since 1958] and we have a chance to progress where we weren't expected to.
"We are in a fantastic position and our players have done unbelievably well. They are in good mood and have everything to look forward to."
Coleman may be keen to see his team do well in Euro 2016 but he insists he is focusing his attentions on ensuring Wales make consistent progress in the coming years.
"Everybody might look at this next game as the be all and end all, whether we progress or we don't, but it is not the end of the journey for this team. They have the potential to go on and on," he added.
"I hope we do get what we need to progress in the tournament because these players have deserved success and I hope that continues.
"Nevertheless, there's more to come from these players in the future and we will learn from this tournament.
"It has been an eye opener, it has been hard, it's very intense but it has been really enjoyable.
"They have put themselves in a great position and they are a credit to their country.
"We just have got to go out on the pitch again without any fear and express ourselves."
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