Allen lauds Wales' star duo

10 November 2011 17:17

Midfielder Joe Allen has hailed the world-class talents of Aaron Ramsey and Gareth Bale as Wales prepare to go in search of a fourth win in five games against Norway on Saturday.

Captain Ramsey and winger Bale have been an integral part of Wales' rise from 117th place in the FIFA World Rankings to 45th, with the combination of the Arsenal midfielder's incisive passing and the Tottenham wide man's pace and trickery wreaking havoc on opposition defences.

"We have some standout players," said Allen. "I think Aaron and Gareth stick out as players who are world class and they make life a lot easier, they are great to play alongside and that's the sort of level and standard of player I want to play with."

He added: "As a team we know where we stand on the situation, it's something we have spoken about it and that is all I can really say about it."

Egil Olsen's Norway side, who are ranked 24th in the world and only missed out on a Euro 2012 play-off berth on goal difference, should provide a stern test of Wales' recent progress on Saturday, but Allen says there has been a buzz about the home side's preparations.

"There is an excitement there when we meet up and we are very proud of performances we have put in," he said.

"We have been getting wins and clean sheets, and we have created a lot of chances. That's what football is about and we are looking forward to trying to achieve that again Saturday."

Norwich striker Steve Morison, like Allen another man to have impressed since stepping up to the Premier League, has also acknowledged the improved morale under Speed.

"There is definitely a feelgood factor around the place and we are enjoying being here, we are looking forward to the game and we just can't wait to get going," he said.

Source: PA