Wales took a big step towards qualification from Group A after their 2-0 victory against Turkey in Baku on Wednesday night, although Robert Page will most likely not allow his side to take their foot off the pedal against Italy.
The Welshmen started their Euro 2020 campaign with a respectable move against Switzerland, before inspired performances from star duo Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey led to three points in the Azerbaijani capital.
Qualification is almost certain but not yet guaranteed, which means team selection against Roberto Mancini’s high-flying Azzurri. Here, 90min predicts the team that can get to the field with the task of ensuring that Wales qualifies for the round of 16.
Joe Rodon and Chris Mepham were fantastic against Turkey / BSR Agency / Getty Images
Danny Ward (GK) – Made an excellent stop in the later stages of Wales’ victory against Turkey, and emphasized why he expelled Wayne Hennessey as a goalkeeper.
Connor Roberts (RB) – The Swansea defender scored Wales’ second goal against Turkey and has looked safe all along.
Chris Mepham (CB) – Showed a strong performance against Turkey after a less impressive show against Switzerland.
Joe Rodon (CB) – When you think about how well he performed against Turkey, it is crazy to think that he only played 12 times in the Premier League for Spurs.
Ben Davies (LB) – One of the leaders on the side, Davies is one of the first names on the Wales team magazine and rightly so.
Ramsey was at his best last time / Marcio Machado / Getty Images
Joe Morrell (CM) – Has looked solid in both Wales games, which gives balance and stability in midfield together with Joe Allen.
Ethan Ampadu (CM) – Ampadu is a midfielder in the trade and is more than capable of taking on the role of owner – and may have the task of containing Italy’s dynamic midfield because he has fresher legs than Allen.
Aaron Ramsey (CM) – Reminded everyone of how good he can be last time, which led Wales to victory when an achievement was most needed. Will gladly show interested clubs that he can match against one of the world’s best teams.
Harry Wilson could get a start in the false nine position / Marcio Machado / Getty Images
Gareth Bale (RW) – May have flared a spot-kick against Turkey high above the crossbar, but Bale was brilliant all the time in Baku. Love to play for his country and lead by example.
Harry Wilson (ST) – Kieffer Moore has been exceptional for Wales so far, but there may be a temptation to get Harry Wilson back this week – he had played in a false nine role that led to the tournament.
Daniel James (LW) – Has an electrifying pace to burn and will undoubtedly be considered when it comes to running behind. James’ last ball is not always the best, but he has had a good contact so far.
