Wales midfielder Gary Speed has announced his retirement from international following tonight’s 3-2 defeat by Poland.
The World Cup qualifying loss at the Millennium Stadium marked the end of Mark Hughes’ reign as manager and Speed – who could succeed him – felt the time was right to bow out.
Wales now face an uphill struggle to qualify from Group Six and 35-year-old Speed wants to see younger players given a chance for the rest of the campaign.
Speed believes Wales have a good young squad, a group he himself could be in charge of if he is chosen as Hughes’ replacement.
Reports have suggested the Bolton midfielder, who presently intends to continue playing for his club, could take over alongside an experienced manager such as Brian Flynn.
Speed told Sky Sports: “I am finished, that is me. I think the time is right.
“The group is at the stage where I think it is difficult to qualify and I think it would be wrong for me to carry on. It’s time to get someone younger in for the new manager.
“I’ve got 85 caps. I’ve had a a great career with Wales and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it.
“The new manager, whoever he is, has got some great players to work with.”