Coleman laments loss of Ramsey for Euro 2016 semi-final

Lille (France) (AFP) – The only disappointment on a historic night for Wales at Euro 2016 on Friday were the bookings picked up by both Aaron Ramsey and Ben Davies that will force them to miss next week’s semi-final against Portugal.

Midfielder Ramsey and defender Davies were two of the three Welsh players who were already on a yellow card coming into Friday’s quarter-final against Belgium in Lille, which Chris Coleman’s side won 3-1.

“We are so disappointed for both players because they deserved as much as anybody to be in the semi-final, because they have been outstanding, both players,” said Coleman, who admitted that being banned for a semi-final for two bookings in five matches was harsh. 

“They did what the team needed from them. It is a bit tough at this level when there is so much pressure on the players.

“I am very proud of both players and their contribution and we wouldn’t be sitting here without those players but the rules are the rules,” he said.

Wales will face Portugal in the semi-final in Lyon next Wednesday in their first ever participation in a European Championship finals.