The Wales XI that should start against Switzerland in their Euro 2020 opener

Gareth Bale is Wales' key man
Gareth Bale is Wales' key man / Athena Pictures/Getty Images
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Wales are back at the European Championships, but with only eight of the same players that took them to the semi-finals in 2016.

They were eliminated by eventual winners Portugal but their campaign in France was undoubtedly a huge success that very few could have foreseen.

Chris Coleman's side quickly became everybody's second team and while many are being realistic about their expectations this time around, there's an undoubted excitement about what they could achieve if they're able to navigate through a tricky Group A.

Here is the starting XI Rob Page is likely to name to face Switzerland.


1. Goalkeeper & defenders

Ben Davies - Soccer Player - Born 1993
Ben Davies is likely to be deployed as part of a back three / Athena Pictures/Getty Images

Danny Ward (GK) - While he didn't make a single appearance in the Premier League for Leicester City last season, Ward has still managed to establish himself as Wales' number one.

Chris Mepham (CB) - The Bournemouth defender endured a disappointing end to his domestic campaign after his side failed to earn promotion back to the top-flight but focus now turns to the international game. Mepham has been impressive in Wales colours.

Joe Rodon (CB) - Has been starved of game-time since swapping Swansea for Spurs. As a result, he's been unable to showcase his talent but there is a very good player in there somewhere.

Ben Davies (CB) - One of the leaders in this side and a left-back by trade, Davies has perhaps surprisingly looked comfortable as a centre-back in this system.


2. Midfield

Aaron Ramsey
Aaron Ramsey has struggled for fitness recently but is hoping to be involved from the start of the tournament / Justin Setterfield/Getty Images

Connor Roberts (RM) - As effective in an attacking sense as he is reliable defensively. He enjoyed a strong season under Steve Cooper at Swansea and fits this shape like a glove.

Ethan Ampadu (CM) - Capable of playing in the centre of midfield as well as at centre-back he's a useful player to have. His defensive instincts will afford those around him the licence to get further forward.

Aaron Ramsey (CM) - There are concerns over the Juventus star's fitness going into the tournament but such is his quality, if fit, he must play.

Neco Williams (LM) - Would prefer to play on his natural right-side but is certainly capable of adapting. With the experienced Davies playing behind him the Liverpool defender will be fine.

3. Forwards

Gareth Bale
Wales will be hoping Gareth Bale can fire them through to the knockout stage of the competition / Athena Pictures/Getty Images

Gareth Bale (RW) - A world superstar and undoubtedly Wales' biggest attacking threat. Bale showed towards the back end of the Premier League season he is in good shape and in excellent goalscoring form.

Harry Wilson (CF) - Has been deployed as a false nine recently and with his technical ability, he's capable of dropping deeper when Wales are without possession.

Dan James (LW) - Struggled for starts at Manchester United but has proven his worth to the Welsh side on many occasions. His ability to cut inside and shoot will prove key, especially without a recognised centre-forward.