Dean Saunders on Wales - 'Be proud, we can win'

DEAN SAUNDERS believes that Welsh passion could earn them a sensational World Cup win in Russia.

There was no prouder Welshman than the former striker, who won 75 caps in his swashbuckling playing career.

Saunders, now Wales assistant manager, said: "We know what a difficult game it will be. The Russians can be brilliant on their day, and we have been badly hit by injuries.

"But we can't start looking for excuses. If we are to qualify for anything, we have to win some away games." Then Saunders fired his battle cry at his players: "We need to stand up tall and be counted, no matter how hostile the atmosphere is.

Play away from home with the same attitude, the same confidence we do at home.

"We will have our tactical plan, but 80 per cent of the game at this level is in your heart and in your head.

"If that's not there, the tactics don't matter. You have to be proud to be Welsh, proud to be in the squad, proud to be picked.

"Proud you are taking part in a game like this, representing your country. Think back to when you started playing football in the schoolyard, how your dream was to play for your country one day.

"Remember that - and that attitude will guide you through."