'Exciting' future for Wales under Bellamy - Ramsey

Craig Bellamy played for clubs such as Liverpool, Manchester City and Newcastle

Captain Aaron Ramsey believes there are “exciting times ahead” for Wales under new head coach Craig Bellamy.

Wales appointed former striker Bellamy on a four-year deal in July, having sacked Rob Page in June.

Cardiff City midfielder Ramsey, 33, played alongside Bellamy for club and country and is backing the ex-Burnley and Anderlecht assistant coach to flourish in his new role.

“I’m really excited. I’ve known Craig for a number of years now and I’m absolutely delighted for him,” Ramsey told BBC Sport Wales.

“I’m sure he’s going to be a real success. If you look at the teams he’s been involved with and the way they’ve played – on the front foot, pressing high, aggressive, controlling the game – I think Wales have got a lot to look forward to. Hopefully there are some exciting times ahead.”

Cardiff-born Bellamy won 78 Wales caps and captained the side between 2007 and 2010, succeeded by Ramsey when the then-Arsenal midfielder was only 20 years old.

Ashley Williams and Gareth Bale then wore the armband for Wales before Ramsey was given the role again following Bale’s retirement in January 2023.

Bellamy, who retired from international football in 2013, took his first steps in coaching with Cardiff’s academy having finished his playing career at the club in 2014.

The 45-year-old then served as assistant manager to former Manchester City team-mate Vincent Kompany at Anderlecht and then Burnley.

Having missed out to Ryan Giggs for the Wales job in 2018, Bellamy will now get the chance to lead the side in qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

His first game as Wales manager will be a Nations League home tie against Turkey on 6 September, followed by a trip to Montenegro three days later.