Robert Page dismisses job pressure after Wales win over Latvia

Robert Page has insisted that he does not feel under any extra pressure to keep his job as Wales manager after his side battled past Latvia on Monday night.

The Dragons have endured a prolonged period of poor form since the end of March 2022, winning just twice in 16 matches ahead of their latest Euro 2024 qualifier.

One of those victories was a 1-0 success over Latvia, who sit at the bottom of their group without a point, and anything less than a maximum return in Riga may have strengthened the calls for a change in the dugout.

However, a penalty from Aaron Ramsey and a late second from David Brooks earned Wales and Page a much-needed success on their travels having gone almost two years without an away win.

Despite getting back on track, Wales are still considerable underdogs to qualify for next year's major tournament with Croatia and Turkey both sitting three points clear in Group D, the former having played a game fewer.

Nevertheless, Page has spoken of his 'pride' having witnessed his team back up a goalless draw with South Korea with an important win on Monday, stating that everyone in the squad is pulling in the right direction.

And Wales are in front! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

Aaron Ramsey makes absolutely no mistake from the penalty spot 👏#EURO2024 pic.twitter.com/xc81dZf58u

— Viaplay Sports UK (@ViaplaySportsUK) September 11, 2023

As quoted by BBC Sport, Page said: "The pressure came from the outside, understandably, but we never questioned it within the group.

He added: ""We knew we had to give a positive reaction after the disappointment of June and we absolutely have - and some. I'm extremely proud of the players. I think the camp has been outstanding. I've got a group of players in there who enjoy playing football for me.

"It feels good. It feels powerful, absolutely - that's a massive compliment to myself from the players. I've just said to them: even the lads that have not played, they all play a part. There are no bad eggs in that changing room.

"Pressure doesn't exist, it is what created from outside influence."

Wales are next in action when they host Gibraltar in a friendly on October 11 before they play host to Croatia in what they will regard as a must-win encounter four days later.