Collison tips Dragons to roar

08 February 2009 10:27
Jack Collison sees no reason why Wales cannot reach a major international tournament in the near future.[LNB] The West Ham star is one of a host of promising youngsters currently being blooded into the senior Welsh side by boss John Toshack.[LNB]The likes of Gareth Bale, Aaron Ramsey and Joe Ledley have all made the step up with ease and appear to have the success-starved nation heading in the right direction once more.[LNB]Wales have not graced a major international event since the 1958 World Cup, preventing a star-studded list of top talent from gracing football's showpiece occasions.[LNB]Manchester United stalwart Ryan Giggs is widely regarded as one of the best players never have qualified for a major tournament, but Collison believes the latest batch of Welsh wonders are capable of making amends for over 50 years of hurt.[LNB]Inspiration"For players of my generation, Ryan Giggs is an obvious inspiration," the Hammers midfielder told the News of the World.[LNB]"He is one of the greatest every players, not just for Manchester United but for Wales and the rest of the nation. He is a great role model as well.[LNB]"He has won so much but maybe I could do something that he hasn't.[LNB]"With Wales we now have a lot of good talent coming through. England only just pipped our U21 side to the Euro finals in a play-off and that has given us belief that, in the next few years, we can qualify for a World Cup or European Championship.[LNB]"There is a real good chance under John Toshack because he has not been afraid to give younger players a chance, even in big games."[LNB]

Source: SKY_Sports