Defiant Robert Page wants focus on Wales win over Croatia, rather than future

Wales boss Robert Page has indicated that he hopes the 2-1 victory over Croatia on Sunday night ends speculation regarding his future.

With the Dragons having won just twice in 14 matches before their October fixtures, there has been talk of Page being removed from his role in the dugout.

The 2022 World Cup participants are also only rank outsiders to qualify for Euro 2024, with their cause hit by a 4-2 defeat at home to Armenia during the summer.

However, after a defiant Page hit back at critics in his pre-match press conference, Wales delivered their best result and performance since beating Ukraine in their World Cup playoff tie in June 2022.

Harry Wilson scored twice after half time to put Wales into the lead with Mario Pasalic's goal for Croatia ultimately proving to be a consolation.

Despite moving level on points with the World Cup semi-finalists, the odds remain stacked against Wales with a trip to Armenia and a home clash with group leaders Turkey still to come.

© Reuters

Nevertheless, Page wants his players to receive widespread praise for their display against Croatia, saying that he is "sick and tired" of having to defend his team's results during what remains a transitional period.

Speaking to S4C, Page said: ""From the first minute right to the 95th, we had to dig deep. With the help of the supporters, we have made it another great night for the lads. The boys dug deep. Their attitude again in this camp has been incredible. I wish you guys could come in and see it.

"Everything's okay. I can't praise them enough. I think seven of them are not starting at their clubs, but they put the Welsh jersey on and they play like that. They want to come and they enjoy it.

"I couldn't be any more proud of them. Actions speak louder than words. I'm sick and tired of having to keep coming on and talk about my future. Let's just talk about the lads and the performances they have put in.

"I get emotional because I'm so proud of them and they deserve all the plaudits they are going to get. We can't wait to meet up for the next game."

Wales are next in action against Armenia on November 18, with that game starting three hours before Croatia meet Latvia on away territory.