England had fallen behind after Gareth Bale scored from a long-distance free kick in the 42nd minute.
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“I think it is an exciting group this one because it is all on these last games”, said Coleman.
“Before the game, we were expected to find it tough and that’s how it turned out”. We know what they’ve done has been incredible, to get to the tournament. The Three Lions needed a win after their opening draw against Russian Federation, to keep their hopes of advancing alive, as they were sitting behind first-placed Welsh in the group. We gave everything like we always do and I have said before if we go out but have given 100 per cent then we can’t do any more. It is the best double substitution I’ve made in this Euros but we have only had two games.
The Group B match in Lens appeared to be heading for a draw until Daniel Sturridge’s last-gasp strike handed England all three points and left Wales needing a win against Russian Federation on Monday to guarantee qualification to the last 16.
He went for broke and showed why, despite England’s underwhelming performances at recent tournaments, I believe he remains the best man for the role.
“Russia have got experience, they will be hurting after the defeat against Slovakia”.
Assistant coach Gary Neville sprinted down the touchline to join in the celebrations after Sturridge’s victor and Hodgson added: “When the chances don’t go in and you’ve compounded your task by conceding that Gareth Bale goal, it really is a happy moment when both the substitutes score”.
Russian Federation midfielder Denis Glushakov, who scored against Slovakia, said the team’s players need to put their poor start to Euro 2016 behind them and focus on beating Wales. We had a nice meal out which meant we got away from the hotel and had a change of scenery.
Coleman said he would broadly have accepted before the tournament going into the last game in control of their destiny, with a win guaranteeing they will reach the knock-out phase. We need to regroup because we can’t dwell on this result.
“So, yeah, it was gut-wrenching for the players and our supporters to be beaten right at the very end”.
“Ash told us there is still a game left and we are still in it”, said midfielder Ledley.
“Since he’s got back from that injury situation, he did have a very settled period of play when he played on a regular basis and he just picked up that injury in the Europa League final”.
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Those words were echoed throughout the Welsh camp before they returned from France’s far north to their base camp in Brittany to prepare for the group denouement next Monday, when a draw may be all they need to progress.
