Belief still high in Wales camp, says Ledley

Joe Ledley believes Wales are still in a 'fantastic position' to qualify for the knock-out stage of Euro 2016 despite their England heartbreak.
England's Dele Alli is tackled by Wales' Ashley Williams and James Chester during the UEFA Euro 2016, Group B match at the Stade Felix Bollaert-Delelis, Lens.England's Dele Alli is tackled by Wales' Ashley Williams and James Chester during the UEFA Euro 2016, Group B match at the Stade Felix Bollaert-Delelis, Lens.
England's Dele Alli is tackled by Wales' Ashley Williams and James Chester during the UEFA Euro 2016, Group B match at the Stade Felix Bollaert-Delelis, Lens.

Wales were within seconds of virtually securing their place in the last 16 in Lens on Thursday when Daniel Sturridge gave England a dramatic 2-1 victory.

Sturridge’s goal took England to the top of Group B and leaves Wales sweating on the outcome of their final game against Russia in Toulouse on Monday.

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Wales are currently in second place heading into the final round of matches.

A victory would guarantee qualification, while a draw will also probably be enough for a last-16 spot.

Skipper Ashley Williams gathered the players together in an immediate post-match huddle in Lens and urged them to put the pain of defeat out of their minds.

“Ash told us there is still a game left and we are still in it,” said midfielder Ledley.

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“We are in a fantastic position and we need to regroup. We can still progress and it is in our hands.

“There is a big game in a few days and we must stay strong and stay together.”

Ledley feels Sturridge’s late winner will not alter the spirit in the Wales camp, which was on a high after their opening victory over Slovakia.

He says they will be focused on getting what they need against a Russia side who have only one point from two games after drawing with England and losing to Slovakia.

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“We just need to continue what we have been doing, both on and off the pitch,” said Ledley.

“Nothing changes. It was the last few seconds that cost us against England, no one likes having that happen with barely any time left on the clock.

“There are a lot of positives. We can maybe improve on is keeping the ball a bit better.”

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