Wales Best Players of All Time

Andrew Kovacs

Wales is an enchanting and fascinating country situated in the United Kingdom. It has a long history, vibrant culture and stunning landscapes that will take your breath away. From its majestic mountains to beautiful beaches, Wales offers something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or cosy pubs with roaring fires, there’s something here to delight every visitor. With friendly locals, fantastic food and plenty of activities on offer – be sure not to miss out on this spectacular destination.

Table of Contents

1. Gareth Bale

Forward

Gareth Bale Career

  • 1999–2006: Southampton
  • 2006–2007: Southampton
  • 2007–2013: Tottenham Hotspur
  • 2013–2022: Real Madrid
  • 2020–2021: Tottenham Hotspur (loan)
  • 2022–2023: Los Angeles FC
  • 2005–2006: Wales U17
  • 2006: Wales U19
  • 2006–2008: Wales U21
  • 2006–2022: Wales

Gareth Bale is a Welsh international footballer who currently plays for Los Angeles FC in the United States. Gareth Bale was born on July 16, 1989, in Cardiff, Wales.

At just under 6 feet tall and weighing 131 pounds, he quickly established himself as one of the most talented young footballers in Europe and won numerous honors with clubs such as Southampton, Tottenham Hotspur.

Real Madrid, and Liverpool before joining Spanish giants Real Madrid for a world record fee of £85 million.

 In 2012, Bale played for England at the UEFA European Championship where they reached the final but were beaten by Spain. He has also represented Wales at various levels including Under-21s, and the full national team. 

Olympic Games World Cup qualifiers, and Euro 2016. Gareth Bale signed for American club Los Angeles FC ahead of their inaugural season in 2018 after completing an impressive season that saw him win both La Liga and Champions League with Real Madrid.

2. Ian Rush

Forward

Ian Rush Career

  • 1978–1980: Chester City
  • 1980–1986: Liverpool
  • 1986–1988: Juventus
  • 1986–1987: Liverpool (loan)
  • 1988–1996: Liverpool
  • 1996–1997: Leeds United
  • 1997–1998: Newcastle United
  • 1998: Sheffield United (loan)
  • 1998–1999: Wrexham
  • 1999–2000: Sydney Olympic
  • 1980–1996: Wales[5]
  • 2004–2005: Chester City
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals

Ian Rush is a Welsh football legend and one of Liverpool's most successful players. He was part of the Reds' championship-winning squads in 1983 and 1986, as well as their FA Cup victory in 1987.

Rush made his debut for Chester City at the age of 16, before moving to Liverpool four years later. Over the course of his career, he won five Premier League titles and two FA Cups with Liverpool.

Ian Rush was named 'Player of the Year' by both The Times and Footballer's Association in 1984–85 and 1985–86 respectively, whilst also being awarded an MBE in 1990 for services to football. 

After retiring from playing professionally in 1991, Rush continued to work as a football commentator for BBC Wales until 2000; since then he has been working with Sky Sports UK on a freelance basis.

In 2006, Rush was voted into Liverpool F·C.'s Hall of Fame alongside other legends such as Kenny Dalglish and Steven Gerrard – making him arguably the greatest player ever to have played for them (although this claim has been disputed by many). 

In 2010, aged just 61,[5] Ian James Rush received an honorary doctorate from Swansea University[6] after giving evidence during its investigation into match fixing allegations levelled against several professional clubs including Manchester United.

On 23 July 2013 it was announced that IanRush had joined former Liverpool teammates John Aldridge & Phil Neal at non-league side Macclesfield Town where he will act as Technical Director.

IanJamesRush became manager (assistant coach) at Macclesfield Town FC on 1 January 2019 following departure Clive Allen.

Also Played For: liverpool f.c

3. Aaron Ramsey

Midfielder

Aaron Ramsey Career

  • 1999–2006: Cardiff City
  • 2006–2008: Cardiff City
  • 2008–2019: Arsenal
  • 2010–2011: Nottingham Forest (loan)
  • 2011: Cardiff City (loan)
  • 2019–2022: Juventus
  • 2022:  Rangers (loan)
  • 2022: Nice
  • 2005–2008: Wales U17
  • 2007–2009: Wales U21
  • 2008: Wales
  • 2012: Great Britain Olympic
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 22:57, 11 November 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 21

Aaron Ramsey is a Welsh footballer who plays midfielder for the French club Nice. Ramsey made his senior debut with Cardiff City in 2008 and has since played for Arsenal, Borussia Dortmund, and Wales.

He was part of the Welsh squad that reached the semi-finals of the European Championship in 2012, and he helped Wales win their first-ever major tournament when they won the Euro 2016 championship. Ramsey represented England at the Under-21 level before switching allegiance to Wales in 2011.

He made his international debut in February 2013 and has since earned over 50 caps for his country Aaron Ramsey is a Welsh professional footballer who plays midfielder for Arsenal and the Wales national team. 

Ramsey made his professional debut with Cardiff City in 2006, making 262 appearances for the club before joining Arsenal in 2008.

He represented Wales at the youth level before making his senior international debut in 2005 and has since earned 78 caps, scoring 20 goals. 

Ramsey was voted Professional Footballers' Association Player of the Year in 2009 and helped help Arsenal win their first Premier League title in 2014/15.

In January 2019, he transferred from Arsenal to Juventus after representing Wales at three consecutive World Cups.

Also Played For: cardiff city f.c, football manager 2011

4. Ryan Giggs

Ryan Giggs Career

  • 1985–1987: Manchester City
  • 1987–1990: Manchester United
  • 1990–2014: Manchester United
  • 1989: Wales U18
  • 1991: Wales U21
  • 1991–2007: Wales
  • 2012: Great Britain Olympic (O.P.)
  • 2014: Manchester United (interim)
  • 2014–2016: Manchester United (assistant)
  • 2018–2022: Wales
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals

Ryan Giggs is a Welsh professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for Manchester United. He began his career at Manchester City and went on to make over 600 appearances for the club, winning 11 major trophies.

He then had stints with Liverpool, Wales and America before joining Premier League rivals Manchester United in 2002. 

Giggs has been capped 115 times by Wales, scoring 34 goals and was part of their squads that reached the semi-finals of the World Cup in 1986 and Euro 1996.

In 2012 he became the longest serving player in Old Trafford history after being appointed assistant manager to David Moyes until his retirement from playing at the end of 2016–17 season aged 40 years old.

Making him both club captain and most decorated player ever at Man Utd Ryan Giggs is one of the most decorated players in English football history.

He has won 38 trophies during his lengthy career, including 10 Premier League titles and five FA Cups. Giggs made his Manchester United debut in 1987 and went on to make a total of 672 appearances for the club over 27 years. 

His international career saw him represent Wales at U18, U21 and Olymipic level before retiring from international play in 2012. 

After leaving Manchester United as a player, Giggs took up a coaching role with Welsh side Swansea City before joining fellow British side Old Trafford as an assistant manager under Louis van Gaal in 2014.

Also Played For: manchester united f.c

5. Mark Hughes

Mark Hughes Career

  • 1978–1980: Manchester United
  • 1980–1986: Manchester United
  • 1986–1988: Barcelona
  • 1987–1988: → Bayern Munich (loan)
  • 1988–1995: Manchester United
  • 1995–1998: Chelsea
  • 1998–2000: Southampton
  • 2000: Everton
  • 2000–2002: Blackburn Rovers
  • 1984–1999: Wales
  • 1999–2004: Wales
  • 2004–2008: Blackburn Rovers
  • 2008–2009: Manchester City
  • 2010–2011: Fulham
  • 2012: Queens Park Rangers
  • 2013–2018: Stoke City
  • 2018: Southampton
  • 2022–: Bradford City
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals

Mark Hughes is a Welsh-born former professional footballer who played as a striker and midfielder. He began his career with Manchester United, where he won the Premier League title in 1986.

He then moved to Barcelona, where he won two La Liga titles and the Copa del Rey in 1988. He returned to England with Stoke City in 2015, helping them win promotion to the Premier League that season.

In October 2017, Hughes was appointed manager of Bradford City after they were relegated from English football's top tier for the first time in their history. As manager of Bradford City, Hughes has led them back into Championship play during 2018–19.

Mark Hughes received an OBE for services to football at Buckingham Palace on 17 May 2019[1] Hughes is a Welsh football manager who has had a long and successful managerial career.

Hughes began his coaching career at the age of 23, taking over as manager of Wales in 1999. He led Wales to Euro 2004, where they reached the semi-finals before losing to Portugal. 

In 2005 he was appointed manager of Manchester United and won three Premier League titles during his time there, as well as the FA Cup in 2007 and the Champions League in 2008. 

Hughes left Manchester United in 2009 to take charge of Blackburn Rovers, but after just two seasons he was sacked due to poor results; this marked the start of a prolonged downturn for Blackburn which saw them relegated from the Premier League twice during his tenure there.

Hughes then joined Stoke City in May 2012 and helped them avoid relegation that season by finishing fifth; however, Stoke were relegated from the Premier League in 2016 under his management and have not returned since then despite several near-misses on promotion bids.

After leaving Stoke City following their relegation from The Championship, Hughes took over at Southampton FC. 

Under his stewardship Saints achieved an impressive seventh-place finish (the highest position achieved by any team managed by him) securing automatic qualification for next season’s Europa League qualifying rounds with only four matches remaining.

On 27th October 2018 it was announced that Hughes would leave Southampton at the end of December 2018 having secured back-to-back promotions via play offs; making him one of only ten managers ever to achieve this feat.

Mark Curtis "Hughes" (born 21 January 1971) is a Welsh football coach who manages English club Stoke City.

6. Neville Southall

Goalkeeper

Neville Southall Career

  • 1970–1973: Llandudno Swifts
  • 1973–1974: Llandudno Town
  • 1974–1976: Bangor City
  • 1976–1979: Conwy United
  • 1979–1980: Winsford United
  • 1980–1981: Bury
  • 1981–1998: Everton
  • 1983: → Port Vale (loan)
  • 1997–1998: → Southend United (loan)
  • 1998: → Stoke City (loan)
  • 1998: Stoke City
  • 1998: Doncaster Rovers
  • 1998–2000: Torquay United
  • 1999: → Huddersfield Town (loan)
  • 2000: Bradford City
  • 2001: York City
  • 2001: Rhyl
  • 2001: Shrewsbury Town
  • 2001: Dover Athletic
  • 2001–2002: Shrewsbury Town
  • 2002: Dagenham & Redbridge
  • 1982–1997: Wales
  • 1999: Wales (caretaker manager)
  • 2001–2002: Dover Athletic
  • 2004–2005: Hastings United
  • 2009: Margate (caretaker manager)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals

Neville Southall is a Welsh goalkeeper who played for Everton in the English Premier League. He made his debut for Everton in 1980 and went on to make 578 appearances over the course of 18 years at Goodison Park.

Southall was an integral part of the team that won two league titles, four FA Cups and three UEFA Cups during his time at Everton. In 1998, after 19 years with Everton, he retired from professional football and later became manager of Bury FC.

Neville has since been awarded an MBE honorary degree by Llandudno University. He currently works as a goalkeeping coach with Liverpool's Academy.

Neville Southall was a Welsh international defender. He played for clubs such as Port Vale, Stoke City and Shrewsbury Town in the English Football League.

He also had loan spells at Southend United and Doncaster Rovers during his professional career. After leaving football, he became a manager with Welsh side Newport County in 2002–2003 season before becoming caretaker manager of Wales for one game in 1999.

Also Played For: everton f.c

7. Gary Speed

Gary Speed Career

  • 1984–1988: Leeds United
  • 1988–1996: Leeds United
  • 1996–1998: Everton
  • 1998–2004: Newcastle United
  • 2004–2008: Bolton Wanderers
  • 2008–2010: Sheffield United
  • 1990–1991: Wales U21
  • 1990–2004: Wales
  • 2010: Sheffield United
  • 2010–2011: Wales
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals

Gary Speed was an excellent midfielder who managed Wales in 2011. He tragically died at the age of 42 after a long battle with cancer. 

Speed is best remembered for his time at Leeds United, where he won several championships and trophies during his youth career.

After retiring from playing, Gary Speed went into management and had some successful spells with teams like Swansea City and Wales. 

Gary Speed will always be remembered as one of the finest midfielders to have ever played the game, and his death has left a void in Welsh football that may never be filled Speed was a versatile midfielder who played for several clubs in England.

He gained international experience with Wales and helped the team win three major trophies, including the UEFA Euro 2004 tournament. 

Speed retired from playing football in 2010, but continued to manage teams until he was dismissed from his job at Sheffield United in 2011. 

After leaving management, Speed became involved in broadcasting and has been working as a commentator for various sports events since then.

Speed is currently serving a six-year prison sentence after being convicted of sexual assault against a teenage girl.

Also Played For: newcastle united f.c., newcastle united f.c

8. Craig Bellamy

Forward

Craig Bellamy Career

  • 1988–1990: Bristol Rovers
  • 1990–1996: Norwich City
  • 1996–2000: Norwich City
  • 2000–2001: Coventry City
  • 2001–2005: Newcastle United
  • 2005: Celtic (loan)
  • 2005–2006: Blackburn Rovers
  • 2006–2007: Liverpool
  • 2007–2009: West Ham United
  • 2009–2011: Manchester City
  • 2010–2011: Cardiff City (loan)
  • 2011–2012: Liverpool
  • 2012–2014: Cardiff City
  • 1995–1997: Wales U18
  • 1997–1998: Wales U21
  • 1998–2013: Wales
  • 2012: Great Britain Olympic (O.P.)
  • 2019–2021: Anderlecht (U21)
  • 2022: Burnley (assistant)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals

Craig Bellamy is a Welsh international footballer who plays as a forward for Burnley. Bellamy started his career at Bristol Rovers, before moving to Norwich City in 1996.

He spent five seasons with the Canaries before joining Coventry City in 2000. After two years with the Sky Blues, he joined Burnley in 2004 and has since made over 300 appearances for the club – scoring over 100 goals.

His performances at Turf Moor have seen him receive several accolades, including Player of The Year and Championship Players' Player of The Season awards in both 2007–08 and 2008–09 respectively. 

In May 2014, Bellamy was appointed assistant manager of Burnley following Sean Dyche's departure to Derby County.

Craig Douglas Bellamy was born on 13 July 1979 in Cardiff, Wales. Played for Bristol Rovers FC (Bristol), scoring 16 goals from 54 league games. 

Also, he played 131 times & scored 48 goals while playing for Norwich City FFC; becoming their top scorer that season.

He helped them gain promotion to Division One football; then went on loan to Coventry City during January 2000 where he helped them avoid relegation finishing 3rd place overall behind Leicester & Watford.

After that making 31 appearances and scoring 10 goals while on loan there. Signed by new Coventry boss John Gregory after impressing on trial.

They didn't make an appearance until November due to suspension but once fit featured prominently up front alongside fellow countryman Marcus Rashford, notching 4 braces including 2 against Peterborough United which lifted Coventry off the bottom spot.

Also Played For: norwich city f.c

9. Neco Williams

Neco Williams Career

  • 2009–2019: Liverpool
  • 2019–2022: Liverpool
  • 2022: Fulham (loan)
  • 2022: Nottingham Forest
  • 2018–2020: Wales U19
  • 2020: Wales
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 17:02, 12 November 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 22

Neco Williams is a Welsh full-back currently playing for Nottingham Forest. He made his first-team debut in the EFL Cup against Burton Albion and established himself as a regular member of their first team during the 2017/2018 season.

Neco Williams represented Wales at under-17, under-19 and under 21 level before making his senior international debut in November 2018. His style of play is primarily based on defending with quick reactions and strong tackles but he can also contribute offensively when needed.

Neco Williams has been described by Forest manager Aitor Karanka as someone who "makes everyone around him better". 

Williams signed a new three year contract with Nottingham Forest in March 2019 Neco Williams is a Welsh footballer who plays as a midfielder for Liverpool. He made his senior debut for the club in 2019 and has since played 14 league games, scoring two goals.

Neco also featured for Fulham on loan last season, helping them reach the Championship play-offs where they lost to Wolverhampton Wanderers. 

The Wales U19 international started playing football at an early age with local side Ely United and went on to make over 200 appearances before signing professional terms with Liverpool in 2018. 

With the experience of both the English Premiership and Championship leagues under his belt, Neco is looking forward to challenging himself even further during his time at Anfield.

Also Played For: premier league fantasy football

10. Joe Allen

Midfielder

Joe Allen Career

  • 1997–2000: Tenby
  • 2000–2007: Swansea City
  • 2007–2012: Swansea City
  • 2008: Wrexham (loan)
  • 2012–2016: Liverpool
  • 2016–2022: Stoke City
  • 2022: Swansea City
  • 2005–2006: Wales U17
  • 2006–2007: Wales U19
  • 2007–2011: Wales U21
  • 2009: Wales
  • 2012: Great Britain Olympic
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 20:37, 2 January 2023 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 23

Joe Allen is a Welsh midfielder who currently plays for Swansea City. Joe Allen started his career with Tenby before joining Swansea City in 2000. Allen has made over 150 appearances for the Swans, scoring 19 goals in the process.

In 2007, he joined Championship side Birmingham City on a season-long loan deal but failed to make an impact and returned to Swansea at the end of the campaign. 

Allen made his Wales debut in November 2016 and scored two goals during UEFA Euro 2020 qualifying matches against Belgium and Lithuania respectively.

He was included in Gareth Bale's 23-man squad for Wales' first ever appearance at a World Cup finals when they faced Croatia on 17 June 2018.

Joe Allen has been a key player for Swansea City since joining from Liverpool in 2016. He is known for his passing and ball control, which have helped him become one of the most popular players at the club. 

Allen made his international debut for Wales in 2005 and has since played 74 times, scoring two goals. He was part of the Great Britain Olympic team that competed in Rio de Janeiro earlier this year. 

Joe Allen is likely to leave Swansea City in the next few months as he looks to play more regular football elsewhere.

Also Played For: swansea city a.f.c, stoke city f.c

11. John Charles

John Charles Career

  • 1946–1948: Swansea Town
  • 1948–1949: Leeds United
  • 1949–1957: Leeds United
  • 1957–1962: Juventus
  • 1962: Leeds United
  • 1962–1963: Roma
  • 1963–1966: Cardiff City
  • 1966–1971: Hereford United
  • 1972–1974: Merthyr Tydfil
  • 1950–1965: Wales
  • 1967–1971: Hereford United (player-manager)
  • 1972–1974: Merthyr Tydfil (player-manager)
  • 1987: Hamilton Steelers
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals

John Charles was a Welsh international footballer and club captain. He made over 350 appearances in the English football league, playing for Leeds United, Swansea Town and Wakefield Trinity during his career.

He also represented Wales at under-23 level and captained the side on one occasion, before retiring from international football after the 1962 World Cup qualifiers. 

After retirement he became assistant manager of local team Salford City but died shortly afterwards due to a heart attack at the age of 72 years old.

John Charles is considered by many as one of England's greatest centre-forwards ever, with strong links to both.

Swansea Town and Leeds United which helped him develop as a player John Charles is considered one of the greatest footballers of all time and was a dominant figure in club competitions during the 1950s and 1960s.

John Charles played for Leeds United, Juventus, Cardiff City, and Hereford United during his illustrious career. He won 38 international caps for Wales between 1950 and 1965. After retiring from playing he managed Hereford United before taking over at Hamilton Steelers in 1987.

Also Played For: leeds united

12. Daniel James

Forward

Daniel James Career

  • 2006–2014: Hull City
  • 2014–2016: Swansea City
  • 2016–2019: Swansea City
  • 2017: → Shrewsbury Town (loan)
  • 2019–2021: Manchester United
  • 2021–: Leeds United
  • 2022–: → Fulham (loan)
  • 2013–2015: Wales U17
  • 2015–2016: Wales U19
  • 2017: Wales U20
  • 2016–2018: Wales U21
  • 2018–: Wales
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 17:47, 31 December 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 22

Daniel James is a 25-year-old English winger currently playing for Fulham on loan from Leeds United. Daniel started his career with Hull City, and made his first-team debut in 2014 at the age of 18.

He has been capped by England at youth level, and was called up to the senior squad for their 2018 World Cup qualifier against Scotland in October 2017 but did not feature in the matchday squad. 

Daniel is known for his speed and ability to take on defenders one-on-one, which has seen him score goals throughout his career so far.

In November 2017 he signed a new contract with Leeds United that will keep him at Elland Road until 2021 Daniel James is a Welsh international footballer who plays for Manchester United as a winger. 

Daniel James started his career at Swansea City, making over 100 appearances and scoring 34 goals in all competitions for the club. In January 2019, Daniel James joined Shrewsbury Town on loan until the end of the season.

Daniel James was called up to Wales' senior team in November 2018 and has since made three appearances, scoring one goal. 

Withdrawn from Wales' squad before their final World Cup qualifying match against Moldova due to an ankle injury sustained during Manchester United's victory over Brighton & Hove Albion earlier that day.

Wales finished second in their group behind Serbia with two points gained, meaning they progressed to the playoffs where they lost 4-0 on aggregate to Belgium.

Also Played For: fulham fc

13. Wayne Hennessey

Goalkeeper

Wayne Hennessey Career

  • –2003: Manchester City
  • 2003–2006: Wolverhampton Wanderers
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2006–2014: Wolverhampton Wanderers: 152: (0)
  • 2006: → Bristol City (loan): 0: (0)
  • 2007: → Stockport County (loan): 15: (0)
  • 2013: → Yeovil Town (loan): 12: (0)
  • 2014–2021: Crystal Palace: 110: (0)
  • 2021–2022: Burnley: 2: (0)
  • 2022–: Nottingham Forest: 1: (0)
  • : Wales U17: 6: (0)
  • : Wales U19: 7: (1)
  • 2005–2009: Wales U21: 6: (0)
  • 2007–: Wales: 108: (0)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 22:18, 27 December 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 12:10, 25 November 2022 (UTC)

Wayne Hennessey is a Welsh goalkeeper who currently plays for Nottingham Forest in the English Premier League. He started his career at Manchester City, before moving on to Wolverhampton Wanderers later in his career.

In 2016, he was called up to play for Wales by manager Chris Coleman and made one appearance during their Euro 2016 campaign. He has also played for Birmingham City, Reading and Ipswich Town among others throughout his professional career.

Hennessey is well-known for his powerful shots from long distances and has won many awards as a result of his performances between the sticks; including being named PFA Player of the Year in 2014/15 and 2015/16 seasons respectively. 

After spending two years out with an ankle injury, he returned to action with Forest this season and is looking likely to retain his place ahead of next year's Premier League campaign.

14. Chris Gunter

Defender

Chris Gunter Career

  • 1997–2006: Cardiff City
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2006–2008: Cardiff City: 28: (0)
  • 2008–2009: Tottenham Hotspur: 5: (0)
  • 2009: → Nottingham Forest (loan): 8: (0)
  • 2009–2012: Nottingham Forest: 133: (2)
  • 2012–2020: Reading: 280: (2)
  • 2020–2022: Charlton Athletic: 54: (1)
  • 2022–: AFC Wimbledon: 18: (0)
  • 2005–2006: Wales U17: 11: (2)
  • 2006: Wales U19: 3: (0)
  • 2006–2007: Wales U21: 8: (0)
  • 2007–: Wales: 109: (0)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 15:00, 30 December 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 23:00 25 September 2022 (UTC)

Chris Gunter is a Welsh defender who currently plays for AFC Wimbledon. Chris Gunter started his career at Cardiff City, playing over 200 times in the Premier League and Championship combined between 1997-2006.

After leaving Cardiff City, Gunter had trials with various clubs before signing with AFC Wimbledon in 2007. In 2011, Gunter was part of Wales' World Cup squad and played in all 3 games as they were eliminated by Uruguay in the group stages.

At club level, Chris Gunster has won 2 FA Cups (with Portsmouth) and 2 EFL Championships (AFC Wimbledon). Having made over 250 appearances for AFC Wimbledon since arriving from Cardiff City, ChrisGuntera is one of the most decorated players in the club's history.

Chris Gunter is a Welsh international footballer who plays for Reading in the Championship. He began his career at Cardiff City, where he made 28 appearances and scored zero goals before joining Tottenham Hotspur on a loan deal in 2008. 

After spending two years with Nottingham Forest, he joined Reading permanently in 2009 and has since made 280 appearances and scored 133 goals in all competitions.

In February 2020, Gunter transferred to AFC Wimbledon after impressing during a loan spell with the Dons earlier that year. Chris Gunter has been capped 49 times by Wales and has won three caps since making his debut in 2005.

15. Ben Davies

Defender

Ben Davies Career

  • 2000–2001: Swansea City
  • 2001–2004: Viborg FF
  • 2004–2012: Swansea City
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2012–2014: Swansea City: 71: (3)
  • 2014–: Tottenham Hotspur: 192: (6)
  • 2011–2012: Wales U19: 3: (0)
  • 2012–: Wales: 77: (1)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 23:53, 4 January 2023 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 12:10, 29 November 2022 (UTC)

Ben Davies is a Welsh defender who currently plays for Tottenham Hotspur. Ben Davies was born in Neath, Wales on April 24th 1993 and started playing football at the age of six with his local club side Gowerton United.

After impressing during trials with Swansea City and Cardiff City, Ben Davies signed for Tottenham Hotspur in 2009 as an apprentice player and made his first-team debut against Newcastle United two years later. 

In total, Ben Davies has made over 100 appearances for Spurs across all competitions including Champions League matches where he has played a vital role defensively alongside Hugo Lloris .

The 29-year old defender is contracted to Spurs until 2020 and looks set to be part of Mauricio Pochettino's defence for many years to come Ben Davies is a Welsh international midfielder who has played for Swansea City and Tottenham Hotspur. 

He started his career at Swansea before moving to Spurs in 2014. Ben Davies is known for his passing ability, as well as his tackling and interceptions. He made 71 appearances for Swansea City between 2000-2001 and 2004-2012, before joining Tottenham Hotspur in 2014.

Davies won three caps with Wales U19s in 2011-2012, before making 77 appearances and scoring one goal for Wales since 2012.

16. Dean Saunders

Forward

Dean Saunders Career

  • 1980–1982: Swansea City
  • 1982–1985: Swansea City
  • 1985: Cardiff City (loan)
  • 1985–1987: Brighton & Hove Albion
  • 1987–1988: Oxford United
  • 1988–1991: Derby County
  • 1991–1992: Liverpool
  • 1992–1995: Aston Villa
  • 1995–1996: Galatasaray
  • 1996–1997: Nottingham Forest
  • 1997–1998: Sheffield United
  • 1998–1999: Benfica
  • 1999–2001: Bradford City
  • 1986–2001: Wales
  • 2008–2011: Wrexham
  • 2011–2013: Doncaster Rovers
  • 2013: Wolverhampton Wanderers
  • 2014–2015: Crawley Town
  • 2015: Chesterfield
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals

Dean Saunders is a Welsh former professional footballer who played as a striker. He began his career with Swansea City, before moving to Brighton & Hove Albion and then Derby County.

After making over 100 appearances for Derby, he moved to Cardiff City on a loan in 1987, where he made further appearances before retiring from football at the age of 29. 

Saunders has since worked as a coach at various clubs and levels, most notably with Bristol Rovers' academy system, while also working as an ambassador for children's cancer charity CLIC Sargent. 

Dean Saunders is a Welsh football manager and player who most recently managed Wrexham.

Dean Saunders began his playing career at West Bromwich Albion before moving to Swansea City in 1986. After spells with Bradford City and Sheffield United, he joined Liverpool in 1992 where he won the FA Cup that year as well as the Premier League title two years later. 

He left Liverpool after one season to join Villa, where he spent five years before retiring in 1995. In 1997, Saunders returned to management when he was appointed manager of Nottingham Forest, winning 43 matches over three seasons before leaving for Benfica in 1999.

After four successful years at Portuguese side Benfica, Saunders signed for Wrexham on a short-term contract in 2008 and led them to promotion from League Two during his tenure there; however.

He departed following their relegation back into the Championship at the end of 2011/12 season due to budget cuts by The Football Association. 

On 3 May 2013 it was announced that Saunders had been appointed Wolverhampton Wanderers' new head coach replacing Kenny Jackett who had resigned earlier that day citing personal reasons.

Wolves went on to win promotion back into the Premier League under his stewardship as champions at Wembley Stadium against Cardiff City on 28 April 2014.

On 5 December 2015 it was announced that Dean Saunders would be taking charge of Chesterfield until the end of January 2016 after Tony Mowbray left Rotherham United midseason

Also Played For: oxford united f.c, derby county football club

17. Ashley Williams

Defender

Ashley Williams Career

  • 2001–2003: Hednesford Town
  • 2003–2008: Stockport County
  • 2008: Swansea City (loan)
  • 2008–2016: Swansea City
  • 2016–2019: Everton
  • 2018–2019: Stoke City (loan)
  • 2019–2020: Bristol City
  • 2008–2019: Wales
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals

Ashley Williams is a centre-back who has played for both club and country. Ashley started his career at Tamworth, before moving to West Bromwich Albion in 2001.

He made over 200 appearances for the Baggies, helping them win the 2005 Premier League title and reach the 2006 UEFA Cup Final. In 2007, Williams joined Swansea City on a free transfer after six years with West Bromwich Albion.

After two seasons with Swansea, he signed for Everton in 2011[5] and helped guide them to their first ever FA Cup victory in 2013[6].

Williams left Everton at the end of the 2015–16 season,[7] joining Welsh side Cardiff City on a two-year contract.[8][9] On 4 June 2018 it was announced that he would be leaving Cardiff at the end of his current contract.

He represented Wales at under-21 level before making his senior debut against Slovakia in 2008 and has since earned 36 caps.

He has also appeared as a substitute during Euro 2016 qualifying matches against Bosnia & Herzegovina (2013), Gibraltar (2015) and Israel (2018).

18. Brennan Johnson

Brennan Johnson Career

  • –2009: Dunkirk
  • 2009–2019: Nottingham Forest
  • 2019–: Nottingham Forest
  • 2020–2021: → Lincoln City (loan)
  • 2016–2017: England U16
  • 2017: England U17
  • 2018–2019: Wales U19
  • 2019–: Wales U21
  • 2020–: Wales
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 23:08, 12 November 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 21

Brennan Johnson is a forward for Nottingham Forest. He was born in 2001 and has been playing football since he was young. In 2017, Brennan Johnson helped Wales win the U-17 World Cup.

He made his senior debut for Forest in April of 2018 against Preston North End in the Championship. Brennan Johnson has declared his international intentions to play for Wales at the under-21 level.

The 21 year old forward is seen as a big talent by many and looks set to have a long career with Nottingham Forest Football Club Brennan Johnson is a talented footballer who has played for several clubs in the UK.

He made his senior debut with Nottingham Forest in 2009 and has since gone on to make over 65 appearances for the club. Brennan Johnson began his international career with England U16s in 2016, before playing for England U17s one year later. 

He was then called up to Wales U19s where he starred, scoring eight goals in total. In 2018, Johnson joined Welsh side Wrexham on loan until the end of the season, helping them reach promotion from League Two as champions.

After returning to Forest, he helped them win promotion back to the Championship at the first attempt and also featured prominently for Wales during their qualification campaign for Euro 2020. 

Now 27 years old, Brennan Johnson looks set to continue playing football at a high level well into his thirties – if not beyond.

Also Played For: efl championship

19. Kieffer Moore

Kieffer Moore Career

  • : Torquay United
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2012–2013: Truro City: 22: (13)
  • 2013: Dorchester Town: 13: (7)
  • 2013–2015: Yeovil Town: 50: (7)
  • 2015–2016: Viking: 9: (0)
  • 2016–2017: Forest Green Rovers: 33: (7)
  • 2016: → Torquay United (loan): 4: (5)
  • 2017–2018: Ipswich Town: 11: (0)
  • 2017–2018: → Rotherham United (loan): 22: (13)
  • 2018–2019: Barnsley: 51: (21)
  • 2019–2020: Wigan Athletic: 36: (10)
  • 2020–2022: Cardiff City: 64: (25)
  • 2022–: AFC Bournemouth: 22: (8)
  • 2016: England C: 1: (0)
  • 2019–: Wales: 31: (9)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 23:28, 3 January 2023 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 29 November 2022 (UTC)

Kieffer Moore is a striker who currently plays for AFC Bournemouth. Moore started his career at Torquay United, where he made over 100 appearances in the League Two campaign before being snapped up by Ipswich Town in 2014.

After leaving Ipswich Town, Moore spent time on loan with Plymouth Argyle and Colchester United before joining AFC Bournemouth permanently in 2017. 

At the club level, Moore has won promotion to the Premier League twice (with Ipswich Town and AFC Bournemouth), as well as reaching the FA Cup final (with Portsmouth) during his time in England's top flight.

Kieffer Moore has also represented Jamaica internationally at the senior level, playing 36 times between 2011-2017 including three Copa America appearances – helping them reach the semi-finals of that tournament on two occasions (2015 & 2016).

In November 2018 it was announced that Moore would join Major League Soccer side Dalian Yifang following the expiry of his contract with AFC Bournemouth. Moore has also played for West Bromwich Albion and Sheffield Wednesday during spells out on loan from Ipswich Town.

20. Connor Roberts

Defender

Connor Roberts Career

  • 2004–2015: Swansea City
  • 2015–2021: Swansea City
  • 2015–2016: → Yeovil Town (loan)
  • 2016: → Bristol Rovers (loan)
  • 2017–2018: → Middlesbrough (loan)
  • 2021–: Burnley
  • 2014: Wales U19
  • 2016: Wales U21
  • 2018–: Wales
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 17:26, 2 January 2023 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 13

Roberts started his career at Premier League side Swansea City, before moving to Burnley in the summer of 2017. Roberts made his debut for Wales in a Euro 2020 qualifier against Austria back in October 2018 and has since gone on to make four more appearances for the country.

Roberts is known for his attacking right-back play and is considered one of Burnley's key players this season. 

Roberts was named as part of Wales' squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Bosnia and Herzegovina and Moldova, but will not feature due to injury Connor Roberts began his senior career with Swansea City in 2004.

He made 133 appearances for the club before moving to Yeovil Town on a loan deal in 2015. After returning to Swansea, he joined Bristol Rovers on a loan spell later that year. 

Connor Roberts was called up to Wales' U21 squad in 2016 and played two matches for the team. He also made one appearance for Wales' senior national side in 2018.

Connor Roberts is expected to join Burnley at the end of his current contract with Swansea City, which expires in 2021.

Also Played For: burnley f.c

21. Joe Rodon

Joe Rodon Career

  • 2005–2015: Swansea City
  • 2015–2020: Swansea City
  • 2018: Cheltenham Town (loan)
  • 2020: Tottenham Hotspur
  • 2022: Rennes (loan)
  • 2017: Wales U20
  • 2016–2018: Wales U21
  • 2019: Wales
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 23:22, 9 October 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 22

Joe Rodon is a Welsh center-back who currently plays for Rennes on loan from Tottenham Hotspur. Joe Rodon made his professional debut in 2015 and has since appeared regularly for both the Wales U21 side and the senior team.

Joe Rodon is known for his strong defending presence, as well as his ability to score goals from set pieces. With Spurs looking likely to sign another defender this summer, it seems likely that Joe Rodon will leave White Hart Lane at some point in the near future.

Joe Rodon was invited to train with the England national team earlier this year, but he has yet to make an appearance for Gareth Southgate's side Joe Rodon is a Welsh international footballer who has played for Swansea City and Tottenham Hotspur. 

Joe Rodon started his career at his hometown club Swansea City before joining Tottenham Hotspur in 2018.

Joe Rodon made his international debut for Wales in 2017 and has since captained the side on multiple occasions. 

Joe Rodon was part of the Swansea team that won promotion to the Premier League in 2016, and he continued to play an important role during their first season back in England's top division. 

Joe Rodon is a versatile midfielder who can play as a central or defensive midfielder, and he is also capable of scoring goals from midfield or defence.

Also Played For: stade rennais f.c

22. Ethan Ampadu

Midfielder

Ethan Ampadu Career

  • 2008–2016: Exeter City
  • 2016–2017: Exeter City
  • 2017–: Chelsea
  • 2019–2020: → RB Leipzig (loan)
  • 2020–2021: → Sheffield United (loan)
  • 2021–2022: → Venezia (loan)
  • 2022–: → Spezia (loan)
  • 2015: England U16
  • 2016: Wales U17
  • 2016: Wales U19
  • 2017–: Wales
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 23:19, 4 January 2023 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 21

Ethan Ampadu was born on September 14th, 2000 in Exeter, England. He started his career at Exeter City and moved to Chelsea on loan in January of 2020. Ethan is a centre-back or defensive midfielder and has represented Wales at youth level.

Ethan made his debut for Chelsea against Huddersfield Town in the FA Cup on January 8th, 2019 coming off the bench as a substitute in the 65th minute for Ruben Loftus-Cheek.[4] 

On February 5th, 2019 he scored his first goal for Chelsea against Newcastle United with a long range shot from outside the box.[5] In May of 2019 he signed a new contract extension with Chelsea which will keep him at Stamford Bridge until 2024.

Ampadu is a talented young defender who has represented England at youth level. He joined Chelsea in 2017 and made his debut for the club later that year. He spent the 2018-19 season on loan at RB Leipzig, where he impressed many with his performances. 

Ampadu is currently out on loan at Sheffield United, and looks to be developing into one of the best defenders in Britain.

Also Played For: exeter city fc, football manager 2020

23. Chris Mepham

Chris Mepham Career

  • 2008–2012: Chelsea
  • 2012–2016: Brentford
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2016–2019: Brentford: 43: (1)
  • 2019–: AFC Bournemouth: 85: (2)
  • 2017: Wales U20: 1: (0)
  • 2017: Wales U21: 4: (0)
  • 2018–: Wales: 36: (0)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 23:03, 5 November 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 21:26, 29 November 2022 (UTC)

Chris Mepham is a 25-year-old centre back who currently plays for AFC Bournemouth. He has played for the Cherries since 2017 and made over 100 appearances for them during that time.

Chris was born in Harrow, England and began his footballing career with local club Southend United before moving to Championship side Brentford in 2016. 

After making 30 appearances for Brentford, he moved up a level to join Premier League side Southampton on loan in January of 2018 where he made eight appearances before returning to Bournemouth later that month.

In 2019, Chris joined AFC Bournemouth permanently and has been an ever present this season as they compete in the Premier League relegation battle Chris Mepham started his youth career with Chelsea before moving to Brentford in 2012. 

He made his senior debut for Brentford in 2016 and has since played 85 games for the club, scoring 43 times. Chris has represented Wales at U20 level and U21 level, playing 36 matches between them without conceding a goal.

Chris is currently on loan at AFC Bournemouth and is hoping to help the Cherries qualify for Europe next season.

24. Harry Wilson

Midfielder

Harry Wilson Career

  • 2005–2015: Liverpool
  • 2015–2022: Liverpool
  • 2015: → Crewe Alexandra (loan)
  • 2018: → Hull City (loan)
  • 2018–2019: → Derby County (loan)
  • 2019–2020: → AFC Bournemouth (loan)
  • 2020–2021: → Cardiff City (loan)
  • 2021–2022: → Fulham (loan)
  • 2022–: Fulham
  • 2013: Wales U17
  • 2014: Wales U19
  • 2015–2017: Wales U21
  • 2013–: Wales
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 22:17, 7 January 2023 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 18

Harry Wilson is a Welsh winger who currently plays for Fulham in the English Premier League. Harry started his career at Liverpool, where he won two FA Youth Cups and three UEFA European Under-19 Championships with the club.

In November 2015, Wilson was loaned to Bristol City until January 2016. He made his debut for Bristol City on 14 November 2015 in a 2–1 victory over Oxford United.[4] On 22 January 2016.

It was announced that Wilson had joined Derby County on an initial one-month loan deal,[5] making his debut four days later in a 1–0 defeat to Reading.[6][7] After making six appearances for Derby County, including five starts.

It was announced on 10 March 2016 that Wilson had been recalled by Liverpool[8], having made 12 appearances and scored one goal for Derby County.

On 7 July 2017, it was announced that Wilson had signed with AFC Bournemouth on a four-year contract from Liverpool worth £15 million. 

Harry made his Bournemouth debut as a second half substitute against Wolverhampton Wanderers in their first EFL Cup match of the season which ended in a 3–1 win.

He went onto make eight further First Team Appearances before being ruled out indefinitely after suffering ankle ligament damage during our Europa League Qualifier. 

Away to Udinese Calcio which resulted in him having surgery requiring 6 months of rehabilitation time ruling him out of all football activities until December 2019 meaning. 

He will miss most if not all of 2020 league games plus any cup or international matches England might be involved in while recuperating.

25. Ben Cabango

Defender

Ben Cabango Career

  • 2018–: Swansea City
  • 2018–2019: The New Saints (loan)
  • 2017: Wales U17
  • 2018–2019: Wales U19
  • 2019: Wales U21
  • 2020: Wales
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 2 January 2023 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 23.19, 25 September 2022 (UTC)

Ben Cabango was born on May 30th, 2000 in Cardiff, Wales. Ben is a defender and currently plays for Swansea City. He had a successful youth career with Newport County, playing over 100 times for the club before moving to Premier League side Swansea City in 2017.

Ben has been capped at Under-17 level by Wales and represented his country at the U18 European Championships last year where they reached the semi-finals. 

Ben is highly rated within Welsh football circles and looks set to make an impact in English football soon enough Ben Cabango is a Welsh international footballer who plays for Swansea City.

Ben has spent the majority of his career at Swansea, making 111 appearances and scoring seven goals since joining in 2018 from The New Saints on loan. He made his senior debut for Wales in 2017 and went on to make five appearances for the team throughout 2019. 

Ben is known as an industrious midfielder who can win back possession or provide precision passing; he is also capable of creating chances with quick runs down the flanks or through balls into the penalty area.

26. Danny Ward

Goalkeeper

Danny Ward Career

  • 2007–2011: Wrexham
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2011–2012: Wrexham: 0: (0)
  • 2011: → Tamworth (loan): 1: (0)
  • 2012–2018: Liverpool: 2: (0)
  • 2015: → Morecambe (loan): 5: (0)
  • 2015–2016: → Aberdeen (loan): 21: (0)
  • 2016–2017: → Huddersfield Town (loan): 43: (0)
  • 2018–: Leicester City: 19: (0)
  • 2009: Wales U17: :
  • 2010–2012: Wales U19: 3: (0)
  • 2012–2015: Wales U21: 4: (0)
  • 2016–: Wales: 28: (0)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 23:05, 3 January 2023 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 20:55, 29 November 2022 (UTC)

Ward was born in Wrexham, Wales and started his career at local side Wrexham. Ward made the move to Leicester City in 2014 and has since played a key role for the Foxes, winning two Premier League titles and an FA Cup during his time at the club.

Ward is regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in Europe and is currently contracted to Leicester City until 2020. Ward was born in Wrexham, Wales, on 5th January 1992. 

Ward started his career at Liverpool, where he made 45 appearances and scored three goals before being loaned to Tamworth for the 2011–12 season.

After scoring five times in six games for Morecambe during the 2015–16 season, Ward joined Aberdeen on a temporary basis. He went onto make 21 appearances and score two goals with Aberdeen before returning to Liverpool. 

In 2017, Ward signed for Huddersfield Town on a season-long loan deal; he helped them finish as runners-up in the Championship title race that year and won promotion to English football's Premier League as champions of the 2018–19 season.

In December 2018 it was announced that Ward had agreed terms with Leicester City and would join up with his former Liverpool teammate Naby Keita later that month on a reported £20 million transfer fee (with add-ons). 

Ward has represented Wales at U17 level through to senior levels, making 28 international appearances between 2009 and 2019 inclusive; including scoring nine times over that period.
Ward is an attacking midfielder who can also play as a winger or striker.

27. Adam Davies

Adam Davies Career

  • 2006–2012: Everton
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2012–2014: Sheffield Wednesday: 0: (0)
  • 2014–2019: Barnsley: 184: (0)
  • 2019–2022: Stoke City: 33: (0)
  • 2022–: Sheffield United: 3: (0)
  • 2019–: Wales: 4: (0)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 19:20, 19 October 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 21:48, 8 June 2022 (UTC)

Adam Davies is a goalkeeper for Sheffield United. He was born in Germany, but moved to Britain when he was young. Davies made his debut for Wales in 2016 and has since been a regular member of the team.

He is known for being one of the best goalkeepers in the League One division and has helped Sheffield United win promotion twice during his time at the club. 

Adam Davies is married and has two young children - twins - who he loves spending time with when not playing football or managing Sheff Weds Adam Davies is a Welsh international footballer who played for Sheffield United and Stoke City in the English Premier League.

Davies started his career at Everton, where he made over 184 appearances before joining Sheffield Wednesday in 2014. 

He spent two seasons with the Owls before moving to Stoke City in 2019. Davies has represented Wales at various youth levels and made his senior debut in 2018. He has since scored four times for the national team.

28. Joe Morrell

Joe Morrell Career

  • –2013: Bristol City
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2013–2020: Bristol City: 1: (0)
  • 2016: → Sutton United (loan): 3: (0)
  • 2017: → Margate (loan): 2: (0)
  • 2017–2018: → Cheltenham Town (loan): 38: (3)
  • 2019–2020: → Lincoln City (loan): 29: (0)
  • 2020–2021: Luton Town: 10: (0)
  • 2021–: Portsmouth: 47: (0)
  • 2013–2014: Wales U17: 6: (1)
  • 2014–2015: Wales U19: 6: (0)
  • 2017–2018: Wales U21: 6: (1)
  • 2019–: Wales: 32: (0)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 1 January 2023 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 13:21, 29 December 2022 (UTC)

Joe Morrell is a central-midfielder for Portsmouth. Joe Morrell made his professional debut in 2013 with Bristol City and has since played for Liverpool, Swansea City, Cardiff City and Portsmouth.

Joe Morrell was born in Ipswich, England on 3 January 1997. Joe Morrell has represented Wales at under-17 level and was called up to the senior squad for their 2019 World Cup qualifier against Slovakia on 11 October 2018 but did not make an appearance.

Joe Morrell began his career with Bristol City, where he played for two seasons before moving to Sutton United on loan.

He then spent one season at Margate and returned to Lincoln City in 2019. Joe is Wales' most capped player and has scored six goals in eighteen appearances for the national team. 

Joe is a versatile player who can play as a defender or midfielder, and he has been linked with moves to clubs like Portsmouth and Luton Town in the upcoming season.

29. Jonny Williams

Midfielder

Jonny Williams Career

  • 2002–2011: Crystal Palace
  • 2011–2019: Crystal Palace
  • 2014–2015: → Ipswich Town (loan)
  • 2015–2016: → Nottingham Forest (loan)
  • 2016: → Milton Keynes Dons (loan)
  • 2016: → Ipswich Town (loan)
  • 2017–2018: → Sunderland (loan)
  • 2019–2021: Charlton Athletic
  • 2021: Cardiff City
  • 2021–: Swindon Town
  • 2007–2009: Wales U17
  • 2009: Wales U19
  • 2010–2013: Wales U21
  • 2013–: Wales
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 00:35, 30 December 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 19

Williams began his career with Crystal Palace, making over 150 appearances for the club between 2002 and 2011. After leaving Crystal Palace, Williams signed for Swindon Town in 2012.

He has since made over 100 appearances for the club and been a regular starter. Williams is a versatile midfielder who can play as either an attacking or defensive midfielder, depending on the situation.

Williams is known for his hard work off of the ball and his ability to get forward from midfield to create chances for teammates. 

Williams is set to become a free agent at the end of this season and will likely be looking for new opportunities ahead of him Williams is a very talented midfielder who has been playing in the Premier League for a number of years now.

He is known for his ability to pass and create chances, as well as his hard work on the pitch. Williams has also had success at international level, with Wales reaching the semi-finals of Euro 2016. He will be looking to continue this good form when he plays for Cardiff City next season.

Williams is not only an excellent player on the field but he is also a popular member of both his teams and communities off it too.

He does charity work regularly and always puts himself forward for role within community initiatives.

Also Played For: swindon town f.c

30. Ivor Allchurch

Ivor Allchurch Career

  • 1947–1958: Swansea Town
  • 1958–1962: Newcastle United
  • 1962–1965: Cardiff City
  • 1965–1968: Swansea Town
  • 1950–1966: Wales
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals

Ivor Allchurch was born in Swansea, Wales on October 16th 1929. Ivor Allchurch trained with Swansea football club before moving to England to play for Chelsea and then West Ham United.

After retiring from playing, Ivor Allchurch became a coach at various clubs including Sheffield Wednesday and Portsmouth before taking over as manager of Swindon Town in 1981. Ivor Allchurch died from cancer 10 years after leaving his position as manager of Swindon Town.

He was 67 years old at the time of his death Ivor Allchurch was a Welsh international who played for his country from 1950 to 1966. 

Ivor Allchurch spent the majority of his career with Swansea Town, where he made 691 appearances and scored 249 goals. Ivor Allchurch represented Wales at two World Cups (1950 and 1954) as well as Euro 1968.

After retiring from playing, Ivor Allchurch served as manager of Cardiff City for three seasons between 1998 and 2001.

31. John Toshack

Forward

John Toshack Career

  • 1965–1970: Cardiff City
  • 1970–1978: Liverpool
  • 1978–1984: Swansea City
  • 1968–1969: Wales Under-23
  • 1969–1980: Wales
  • 1978–1983: Swansea City (Player–manager)
  • 1983–1984: Swansea City
  • 1984–1985: Sporting CP
  • 1985–1989: Real Sociedad
  • 1989–1990: Real Madrid
  • 1991–1994: Real Sociedad
  • 1994: Wales
  • 1995–1997: Deportivo
  • 1997–1999: Beşiktaş
  • 1999: Real Madrid
  • 2000–2001: Saint-Étienne
  • 2001–2002: Real Sociedad
  • 2002–2003: Catania
  • 2004: Real Murcia
  • 2004–2010: Wales
  • 2011–2012: Macedonia
  • 2013: Khazar Lankaran
  • 2014–2016: Wydad Casablanca
  • 2018: Tractor
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals

Toshack is a Welsh football manager who has managed both Liverpool and Swansea City. Toshack made his name as a prolific striker for Cardiff City before moving to Liverpool in 1970.

He was appointed manager of Swansea City in 1978, guiding them to the First Division title in 1983. Toshack left Swansea following the club's relegation from the Premier League in 1984 but returned to manage Liverpool two years later.

In 1988, he led Wales to their first-ever major tournament victory at Euro 88, earning him the nickname 'The Lion of Mid-Wales'. After another successful spell at Anfield which saw them win three league titles and two FA Cups between 1990 and 1994.

Toshack was sacked by Liverpool owner John W Henry following an alleged power struggle with player managers Kenny Dalglish and Roy Evans.

He retired from management after leaving Spanish side Valencia midway through the 2006–07 season; during his time there he steered them into La Liga for only their second-ever season while also winning Copa del Rey twice (2007–08 & 2008–09).

On 25 May 2010, it was announced that Toshack had been appointed assistant manager of Real Madrid under new coach José Mourinho on a three-year contract starting 1 July 2010; this followed Pepe Reina's decision not to renew his contract with Real Madrid.

Toshack departed Real Madrid on 30 June 2013 having failed to help them win any silverware during his tenure including being dismissed just months into managerial duties due to poor results.

32. Cliff Jones

Cliff Jones Career

  • 1952–1958: Swansea Town
  • 1958–1968: Tottenham Hotspur
  • 1968–1970: Fulham
  • 1970–1971: King's Lynn
  • 1971: Bedford Town
  • 1954–1969: Wales
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals

Cliff Jones was a Welsh winger who played for Everton and England. He is best known for his time at Everton, where he helped the team to win the FA Cup in 1968 and 1969.

He later played for Barcelona before retiring in 1973. After retirement, Jones worked as a television pundit and coach. 

In 2010, he was made an honorary citizen of Swansea by the city's mayor Cliff Jones was a Welsh international and played for Tottenham Hotspur, Swansea Town and Fulham.

Cliff Jones was inducted into the Welsh Football Hall of Fame in 2007. Cliff Jones is considered one of the greatest defenders to have played in English football history and he won two league titles with Spurs as well as three FA Cups during his time at White Hart Lane. 

He also made 59 appearances for Wales between 1954-1969, including helping the nation qualify for their first ever World Cup in 1958 which they went on to win.

After retiring from playing professionally, Cliff Jones became manager of Bedford Town before later becoming assistant manager at Bolton Wanderers.

33. Sorba Thomas

Midfielder

Career

  • : West Ham United
  • 2015–2017: Boreham Wood
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2016–2021: Boreham Wood: 77: (8)
  • 2018: → Cheshunt (loan): 1: (0)
  • 2021–: Huddersfield Town: 70: (3)
  • 2021–: Wales: 7: (0)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 17:57, 10 December 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 21:10, 21 November 2022 (UTC)

Ben Sorba was born in Newham, England on January 25th 1999. He began his youth career with Chelsea before joining Huddersfield Town in 2017. Ben is a winger and has made one appearance for the Terriers' first team so far this season.

As of July 2018, he has scored 3 goals for Huddersfield Town's U-21 side and also represented England at under-17 level Sorba Thomas made his first-team debut for West Ham United in the 2016–17 season, and went on to make 77 appearances during three years at the club.

He joined Boreham Wood on loan in 2018, before joining Huddersfield Town on a permanent deal the following year. Sorba has represented Wales at senior level seven times so far, scoring zero goals.

34. Dylan Levitt

Midfielder

Dylan Levitt Career

  • –2019: Manchester United
  • 2019–2022: Manchester United
  • 2020–2021: → Charlton Athletic (loan)
  • 2021: → Istra 1961 (loan)
  • 2021–2022: → Dundee United (loan)
  • 2022–: Dundee United
  • 2016: Wales U17
  • 2017–2019: Wales U19
  • 2019: Wales U21
  • 2020–: Wales
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 20:10, 8 January 2023 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 21

Dylan Levitt was born on 17 November 2000 in Bodelwyddan, Wales. He started his youth career with Manchester United and has since played for Dundee United in the Scottish Premiership.

Dylan is a midfielder and is currently playing for Dundee United in the Scottish Premiership. Dylan has represented Wales at under-17 level and made his international debut against Hungary in October 2018.

Dylan is considered to be one of the most promising young midfielders in England and Scotland, having been compared to former Manchester United stars Paul Scholes and David Beckham junior due to his attacking flair on the pitch Dylan Levitt has played for several clubs in England over the course of his senior career.

He started out at Manchester United, but he later moved on to Charlton Athletic and Dundee United before joining Istra 1961 on loan this season. Dylan Levitt is a versatile player who can play as either a defensive midfielder or an attacking winger. 

He has represented Wales at various age groups, including U17s, U19s and U21s, and he is currently with the senior team.

Dylan Levitt is known for his hard work off the pitch as well as on it; he often puts in long hours training sessions in order to improve his game further. His goal scoring record shows that he’s been able to translate those efforts into results on the field.

Also Played For: dundee united f.c

35. Rubin Colwill

Career

  • 2010–2021: Cardiff City
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2021–: Cardiff City: 54: (5)
  • 2018: Wales U17: 3: (0)
  • 2021–: Wales U21: 1: (0)
  • 2021–: Wales: 8: (1)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 1 January 2023 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 20:21, 29 November 2022 (UTC)

Rubin Colwill is a Welsh winger who currently plays for Cardiff City. Rubin started his career at Wrexham and made his debut in the 2016-17 season. In total, Rubin has made 25 appearances for Wrexham, scoring two goals.

After impressing during loan spells with Southend United and Hereford United, Rubin joined Cardiff on a permanent deal in January 2019. At 20 years old, Rubin is already an experienced player and looks to continue progressing at Cardiff City over the next few seasons.

Rubin Colwill is a Welsh international footballer who most recently played for Cardiff City in the Premier League. He has also represented Wales at U17 and U21 levels. 

Rubin Colwill came through the ranks at Cardiff City, making his debut in 2010 and helping them win promotion to the Premier League in 2013.

After two seasons spent in England's top division, he moved back to Wales to play for Cardiff City's rivals Swansea City before returning to English football with Bristol City in January 2019. Rubin Colwill is known as an industrious midfielder who can contribute offensively both from set-pieces and from midfield itself.

His ability to get forward has seen him score goals both domestically and internationally, including three times for Wales U17s combined with one senior cap for Wales.

36. Tom Lockyer

Tom Lockyer Career

  • 2006–2011: Cardiff City
  • 2011–2012: Bristol Rovers
  • 2012–2019: Bristol Rovers
  • 2019–2020: Charlton Athletic
  • 2020: Luton Town
  • 2015–2016: Wales U21
  • 2017: Wales
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 17:57, 10 December 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 01

Tom Lockyer is a Welsh international footballer who currently plays for Luton Town. Tom had his professional debut with Cardiff City in 2012 and went on to make over 100 appearances for the club before joining Luton Town in January 2019.

A centre-back by trade, Tom has also spent time out on loan at Bradford City and Newport County during his career so far. 

Born in Cardiff, Wales, Tom started playing football for local side Vale of Glamorgan before moving up to Cardiff City's academy in 2010 where he made his first-team debut aged 17 years old later that year against Norwich City. 

After making over 100 appearances for the Bluebirds, including winning promotion from League One with them as champions in 2015,[6] Thomas joined league rivals Luton Town on 1 January 2019[7].

Lockyer was born in Cardiff, Wales and started his career at Cardiff City. He made his senior debut for Bristol Rovers in 2012 and went on to play 255 league games for the club before joining Charlton Athletic in 2019. 

Lockyer has represented Wales at U21 level and has scored seven goals since making his debut in 2015. He is a hard-working midfielder who is capable of providing defensive stability as well as attacking threat from midfield.

Also Played For: luton

37. Rhys Norrington-Davies

Defender

Rhys Norrington-Davies Career

  • 2017: Swansea City
  • 2017–2018: Sheffield United
  • 2018–: Sheffield United
  • 2018–2019: Barrow (loan)
  • 2019–2020: Rochdale (loan)
  • 2020–2021: Luton Town (loan)
  • 2021: Stoke City (loan)
  • 2017: Wales U19
  • 2017–2019: Wales U21
  • 2020: Wales
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 20:56, 19 October 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 23,23, 25 September 2022 (UTC)

Rhys Norrington-Davies is a young defender who currently plays for Sheffield United. He was born in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and raised in Wales. Rhys has represented both Bow Street and Aberystwyth Town at youth level before making his professional debut with Sheffield United in 2016.

In addition to playing football, Rhys also competes in track and field events including the 100 metres and 200 metres dash. Outside of football, he is known for his charitable work which includes supporting children’s charities like Comic Relief UK and Sport For London's Get Fit programme.

Rhys is an ambassador for the Special Olympics UK charity Rhys Norrington-Davies is a Welsh professional footballer who plays for Sheffield United as a defender. 

He made his senior debut with Swansea City in 2017, before joining Sheffield United the following year.  Norrington-Davies has played for Wales at youth level and was called up to the full national team in 2017.

In 2018 he joined Barrow on loan, making 28 appearances before returning to United later that year. Norrington-Davies signed a new long term contract with Sheffield United in December of that year and has since remained an important part of The Blades' defence lineup.

Also Played For: sheffield united f.c

38. Simon Davies

Simon Davies Career

  • 1997–2000: Peterborough United
  • 2000–2005: Tottenham Hotspur
  • 2005–2007: Everton
  • 2007–2013: Fulham
  • 2013: Solva
  • 1998–2001: Wales U21
  • 2001–2010: Wales
  • 2020–2021: Peterborough United (U18)
  • 2021–2022: Peterborough United (U23)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals

Davies was born and raised in Wales, playing for local clubs before joining Solva. Davies moved to England to sign with Norwich City in 2000, but did not make a single appearance for the club and spent time on loan at Peterborough United.

Davies made his debut for Wales in October 2006, scoring against Scotland and has since played at UEFA Euro 2008, World Cup 2010 and 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification tournaments. In January 2017 he signed with Championship side Cardiff City on a two-and-a-half year deal.

He announced his retirement from international football after the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign ended without a win.[1] After retiring from Welsh duty Davies joined non league side Hayes & Yeading United.

Who he helped reach the National League South play off final where they lost 2–0 to Cheltenham Town.

Also Played For: spurs premier league, tottenham hotspur f.c

39. Rob Page

Rob Page Career

  • 1985–1993: Watford
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 1993–2001: Watford: 215: (2)
  • 2001: → Sheffield United (loan): 3: (0)
  • 2001–2004: Sheffield United: 104: (1)
  • 2004–2005: Cardiff City: 9: (0)
  • 2005–2008: Coventry City: 70: (1)
  • 2008: Huddersfield Town: 18: (1)
  • 2008–2011: Chesterfield: 56: (1)
  • Total: : 475: (6)
  • 1991–1992: Wales U18: 6: (0)
  • 1994–1995: Wales U21: 6: (0)
  • 1996–2005: Wales: 41: (0)
  • 1999: Wales B: 1: (0)
  • 2014–2016: Port Vale
  • 2016–2017: Northampton Town
  • 2017–2019: Wales U21
  • 2020–: Wales
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals

Rob Page is a Welsh defender who has played for Watford and Sheffield United in the Premier League. He made his international debut for Wales in 2003, retiring from international duty in 2017.

In March 2018, Page was appointed manager of Wales following the sacking of Chris Coleman. Under Page's management, Wales reached the semi-finals of Euro 2020 but were eliminated by Portugal on penalties after a 1–1 draw in their first-ever knockout stage match at a European Championships.

On 10 November 2022, Rob Page led Wales to their first World Cup Finals since 1958 as they defeated Uruguay 3-0 to win Group D with four points overall. Rob Page made his debut for Sheffield United in 2001 and was part of the side that won promotion to the Premier League in 2002. 

He spent six seasons with the Blades before moving on to Cardiff City in 2004, where he helped them win promotion to the Premier League.

In 2005, Rob signed for Coventry City and helped them gain automatic qualification for Europe as well as winning a league title. 

In 2008, he moved on to Huddersfield Town, who were then playing in England's second tier - Division One North - but he only stayed there for 18 months before returning to Wales with Chesterfield. 

He retired from professional football at the end of 2011 after helping Chesterfield reach the playoffs; they lost out on a place in League Two Playoff Final against Wycombe Wanderers.

40. Tyler Roberts

Tyler Roberts Career

  • 2006–2016: West Bromwich Albion
  • 2016–2018: West Bromwich Albion
  • 2016–2017: → Oxford United (loan)
  • 2017: → Shrewsbury Town (loan)
  • 2017–2018: → Walsall (loan)
  • 2018–: Leeds United
  • 2022–: → Queens Park Rangers (loan)
  • 2015–2016: Wales U17
  • 2015–2016: Wales U19
  • 2016–2017: Wales U20
  • 2017–2018: Wales U21
  • 2018–: Wales
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 1 January 2023 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 21:31, 22 September 2022 (UTC)

Tyler Roberts is a forward who currently plays for Queens Park Rangers on loan from Leeds United. Tyler Roberts started his career with West Bromwich Albion, where he made over 100 appearances between 2006 and 2016.

In 2017, Tyler Roberts joined Leeds United on a season-long loan deal. He made an immediate impact, scoring six goals in thirteen appearances as the club secured promotion to the Premier League. 

On 31 January 2019, it was announced that Tyler Roberts had signed for QPR permanently on a three-and-a-half-year contract after impressing during his loan spell at the club earlier in the year.

A quick and powerful player with good shooting ability, Tyler Roberts is expected to add further firepower to QPR's frontline next season as they aim to return to the Premier League playoffs for the first time since 2013/14 campaign.

Also Played For: queens park rangers f.c

41. Matthew Smith

Career

  • –2013: West Bromwich Albion
  • 2013–2018: Manchester City
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2018–2022: Manchester City: 0: (0)
  • 2018–2019: → Twente (loan): 34: (2)
  • 2019–2020: → Queens Park Rangers (loan): 8: (0)
  • 2020: → Charlton Athletic (loan): 2: (0)
  • 2020–2021: → Doncaster Rovers (loan): 40: (1)
  • 2021–2022: → Hull City (loan): 9: (0)
  • 2022–: Milton Keynes Dons: 21: (2)
  • 2015–2016: Wales U17: 8: (0)
  • 2016: Wales U19: 3: (0)
  • 2017: Wales U21: 5: (1)
  • 2018–: Wales: 19: (0)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 20:16, 08 January 2023 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 21:29, 22 September 2022 (UTC)

Matthew Smith is a 23-year-old midfielder who currently plays for Milton Keynes Dons. Smith made his senior debut in 2018 with Manchester City and has since played for West Bromwich Albion, before joining Milton Keynes Dons this season.

A versatile player, Matthew can play either as a central midfield or defensive midfielder and impressed during his time at Manchester City, being named Young Player of the Year in 2017–18.

Born in Redditch, England, Smith started playing football at an early age and joined West Bromwich Albion aged 10 after impressing on trial; he progressed through the academy ranks there before making his first-team debut in 2013 at the age of 17 years old.

After two seasons with the Baggies where he made 39 appearances, Smith moved to reigning Premier League champions Manchester City for £12 million ($16 million) in May 2016; however, injuries limited him to just 16 appearances over two seasons there before moving back to England again to join Milton Keynes Dons this summer.

42. David Brooks

David Brooks Career

  • 2004–2014: Manchester City
  • 2014–2015: Sheffield United
  • 2015–2018: Sheffield United
  • 2015: FC Halifax Town (loan)
  • 2018: AFC Bournemouth
  • 2017: England U20
  • 2017–2018: Wales U21
  • 2017: Wales
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 13 October 2021 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 18:53, 26 June 2021 (UTC)

David Brooks was born on 8 July 1997 in Warrington, England. David Brooks is a midfielder for AFC Bournemouth and has been with the club since 2017. David Brook's father played professional football for Bolton Wanderers and his uncle also played professionally for Liverpool F.C.

In 2016, David Brooks joined the Manchester City youth team but left after one year to join AFC Bournemouth as an under-18 player. 

In 2017-2018, he made 24 appearances in all competitions for AFC Bournemouth, scoring two goals including one against Tottenham Hotspur in the 2018 FA Cup Final which saw them become champions of England for the first time ever.

As of May 2019, David Brooks has made 12 appearances this season for AFC Bournemouth including six starts in League Two.[4] David Brooks is an American journalist and commentator. David Brooks was born in September 1967, in Syracuse, New York. 

After graduating from Yale University with a degree in political science, Brooks worked as a reporter for The Wall Street Journal before becoming the paper's editorial page editor in 2001.

In 2003, he published his first book, "The Social Animal: Why We Love Being Alone and How Loneliness Threatens Our Future". 

Since then he has written several other books including "The Road to Character", "The Weekly Standard" Contributing Editor and most recently "Conscience of A Conservative: A Rejection of Political Correctness". 

He currently works as a columnist for The New York Times and is also a contributor to HBO's Real Time With Bill Maher program.

43. James Collins

Defender

James Collins Career

  • 1998–2000: Cardiff City
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2000–2005: Cardiff City: 66: (3)
  • 2005–2009: West Ham United: 54: (2)
  • 2009–2012: Aston Villa: 91: (5)
  • 2012–2018: West Ham United: 134: (4)
  • 2019: Ipswich Town: 6: (0)
  • Total: : 351: (14)
  • 2001: Wales U19: 3: (0)
  • 2002: Wales U20: 2: (0)
  • 2002–2004: Wales U21: 8: (0)
  • 2004–2016: Wales: 51: (3)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals

James Collins is a Welsh international center-back who has played for Cardiff City, West Ham United and the England national team. Collins made his senior debut in 1998 with Cardiff City and spent six years at the club before moving to Premier League side West Ham United in 2004.

He played over 200 league games for Westham, helping them win a promotion to the top flight in 2006. Collins moved to England's national team in 2007 and went on to make over 50 appearances for his country, including Euro 2008 and World Cup 2010 qualification campaigns. 

He was part of Roy Hodgson's squads at both tournaments but did not feature in either final tournament due to injury concerns.

After being released by West Ham at the end of their 2012–13 season, Collins signed a two-year contract with Greek side AEK Athens where he helped them reach the UEFA Champions League group stage during his first year there before leaving at the end of the 2015–16 season.

After one more year playing for Olympiacos FC in Greece's Superleague division Now 39 years old, Collins retired from professional football following his spell with Olympiacos FC having amassed 208 appearances (241 including friendlies) and six goals across all competitions.

In November 2018 he was appointed assistant manager of National League North side Wrexham AFC. Their senior career includes spells with Cardiff City (1998–2000), West Ham United (2004–2012), England U21s(2002), Wales U21s(2003), and Olympiacos FC (2015-2016).

44. Chris Coleman

Chris Coleman Career

  • 1986: Manchester City
  • 1986–1987: Manchester City
  • 1987–1991: Swansea City
  • 1991–1995: Crystal Palace
  • 1995–1997: Blackburn Rovers
  • 1997–2002: Fulham
  • 1992–2002: Wales
  • 2003–2007: Fulham
  • 2007–2008: Real Sociedad
  • 2008–2010: Coventry City
  • 2011–2012: AEL
  • 2012–2017: Wales
  • 2017–2018: Sunderland
  • 2018–2019: Hebei China Fortune
  • 2022: Atromitos

Chris Coleman was born on 10 June 1970 in Swansea, Wales. He started his career at Manchester City as a defender before moving to Swansea City in 1991. Coleman made 154 appearances for Swansea and also played for Crystal Palace and Blackburn Rovers during his senior career.

He joined Atromitos as manager in 2016 and has so far led the club to third place in Greece's Super League table Coleman is the manager of Wales and has been in charge since 2008. 

Coleman led Fulham to promotion to the Premier League in 2003, and Coventry City to successive promotions from the Championship in 2007 and 2008.

Coleman was appointed interim manager of Real Sociedad in October 2008 but left two months later after failing to win a game. 

He was then appointed manager of Coventry City for a second time, but resigned during the January 2010 transfer window due to personal reasons unrelated to his job at Coventry City FC In November 2011.

He was named Manager of AEL Limassol following their relegation from Cyprus First Division and guided them back up as champions; however, he left at the end of that season citing family reasons once again. 

On 2 July 2012 Chris Coleman was announced as new Head Coach of Welsh National Team replacing Brian Flynn who took over as head coach for Belgium's national side Euro 2016 qualifiers against Macedonia & Israel respectively 7.

The team finished 3rd behind Scotland & Iceland qualifying for their first-ever major tournament with Croatia awaiting on 9th September 2018 in what would be his last international managing role 8. Coleman stepped down after 8 years leading Wales on 12th September 2018.

45. Joe Ledley

Midfielder

Joe Ledley Career

  • 1996–2004: Cardiff City
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2004–2010: Cardiff City: 229: (27)
  • 2010–2014: Celtic: 106: (20)
  • 2014–2017: Crystal Palace: 83: (6)
  • 2017–2019: Derby County: 30: (2)
  • 2019–2020: Charlton Athletic: 1: (0)
  • 2020: Newcastle Jets: 6: (0)
  • 2021: Newport County: 4: (0)
  • Total: : 459: (55)
  • 2003–2004: Wales U17: 6: (0)
  • 2004–2005: Wales U19: 3: (0)
  • 2005–2008: Wales U21: 5: (0)
  • 2005–2018: Wales: 77: (4)

Joe Ledley is a Welsh international midfielder who has played for Cardiff City, Celtic, and Crystal Palace since 2004. Joe Ledley was born in 1987 in Cardiff, Wales, and started playing football at the age of six for his local club Cardiff City.

He made his debut for the senior side in 2004 after impressing whilst on loan at Football League Championship side, Cardiff City from youth team rivals Celtic. 

After establishing himself as an important midfield player for both sides, Joe moved to Scottish giants Celtic in 2010 where he would go on to win two league titles and three Scottish cups before joining English Premier League side Crystal Palace in 2014.

Joe continued his good form with Crystal Palace by winning another league title during his time there before moving to Derby County midway through the 2017-2018 season. 

At 35 years old, Joe Ledley announced his retirement from professional football effective immediately following Derby's relegation from the EPL at the end of the 2018-2019 season due to financial difficulties within their own squad.

However, he will continue playing amateur-level football with nonleague side Charlton Athletic until 2020.

46. James Chester

Defender

James Chester Career

  • 2007: Manchester United
  • 2007–2011: Manchester United
  • 2009: Peterborough United (loan)
  • 2009: Plymouth Argyle (loan)
  • 2010–2011: Carlisle United (loan)
  • 2011–2015: Hull City
  • 2015–2016: West Bromwich Albion
  • 2016–2020: Aston Villa
  • 2020: Stoke City (loan)
  • 2020–2022: Stoke City
  • 2022: Derby County
  • 2014–2018: Wales
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 20:06, 7 December 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 20

James Chester started his career at Manchester United before moving to Derby County in 2016. Chester is a centre-back and has played for England at youth level, as well as representing Wales at senior level.

He made his Premier League debut for Derby County in May 2017 against Liverpool and helped the club win promotion that year. In 2018, Chester helped Derby County reach the FA Cup final where they lost to Tottenham Hotspur 1–0 after extra time.

The defender signed a new four-year contract with Derby County in December 2018.[4] James Chester is considered an important part of the English national team set-up and was called up to represent them during Euro 2020 qualifying matches starting in March 2019.

James Chester joined Hull City from Manchester United in the summer of 2011. The central defender made 156 appearances for Hull before moving to West Bromwich Albion in January 2016. Chester has also played for Wales, making 35 appearances between 2014 and 2018. 

In 2020 he signed a loan deal with Stoke City, where he won promotion to the Premier League under manager Paul Lambert in his first season at the club.

47. Robert Earnshaw

Forward

Robert Earnshaw Career

  • 1997–1998: Cardiff City
  • 1998–2004: Cardiff City
  • 2000: Greenock Morton (loan)
  • 2004–2006: West Bromwich Albion
  • 2006–2007: Norwich City
  • 2007–2008: Derby County
  • 2008–2011: Nottingham Forest
  • 2011–2013: Cardiff City
  • 2012–2013: Maccabi Tel Aviv (loan)
  • 2013: Toronto FC
  • 2014: Blackpool
  • 2014: Chicago Fire
  • 2015: Vancouver Whitecaps FC
  • 2015: Whitecaps FC 2 (loan)
  • 1998–2001: Wales U21
  • 2002–2012: Wales
  • 2018–2019: Fresno FC (assistant)
  • 2022: Orange County SC (assistant)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals

After a successful youth career with Cardiff City, Robert Earnshaw made his senior debut for the Bluebirds in 1998. He spent four seasons at Cardiff before moving to West Bromwich Albion in 2000.

After two years there, he joined Norwich City and played 45 times over three seasons. In 2007, Earnshaw signed for Aston Villa and helped them qualify for Europe for the first time in their history.

He left Villa at the end of the 2009–10 season and has since had spells with Sunderland, Derby County, and QPR, totaling 206 appearances across all competitions. At the international level, Earnshaw has represented Zambia 34 times, scoring 15 goals.

Since leaving professional football in December 2013, Robert Earnshaw has been working as a coach with Bristol Rovers academy.

Also Played For: zambia best soccer players, zambian soccer

48. Andy King

Midfielder

Andy King Career

  • 1998–2004: Chelsea
  • 2004–2006: Leicester City
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2006–2020: Leicester City: 329: (55)
  • 2018: → Swansea City (loan): 11: (2)
  • 2019: → Derby County (loan): 4: (0)
  • 2019: → Rangers (loan): 2: (0)
  • 2020: → Huddersfield Town (loan): 14: (0)
  • 2021: OH Leuven: 1: (0)
  • 2021–: Bristol City: 28: (1)
  • 2007–2008: Wales U19: 7: (0)
  • 2007–2010: Wales U21: 10: (2)
  • 2009–2018: Wales: 50: (2)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 12:29, 26 December 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 20:08, 20 November 2018 (UTC)

Andy King was born in England in 1988. He started his career with Chelsea and played for Leicester City between 2004-2006. In 2016, Andy joined Bristol City who he has since helped to rise up the English leagues ladder.

A versatile midfielder, Andy is known for his shooting ability and passing range from deep midfield positions. With over 100 appearances for Bristol City, including two seasons at the top level of English football.

It seems likely that King will continue playing at a high level for some time to come Andy King is a midfielder who has played for Leicester City, Swansea City, Derby County and Rangers.

He made his international debut in 2007 and has since appeared for Wales 50 times. In 2018 he joined Swansea on loan before joining Derby County on a temporary basis the following year. He signed with Huddersfield Town on a permanent deal in 2020.

49. Rabbi Matondo

Forward

Rabbi Matondo Career

  • 2006–2016: Cardiff City
  • 2016–2019: Manchester City
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2019: Schalke 04 II: 2: (0)
  • 2019–2022: Schalke 04: 30: (2)
  • 2021: → Stoke City (loan): 10: (1)
  • 2021–2022: → Cercle Brugge (loan): 26: (9)
  • 2022–: Rangers: 13: (0)
  • 2015: England U15: :
  • 2015–2016: Wales U17: 10: (0)
  • 2017–2018: Wales U21: 8: (0)
  • 2018–: Wales: 11: (0)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 21:58, 28 December 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 8 June 2022

Rabbi Matondo is a Welsh-born winger who currently plays for Rangers. He made his professional debut with Cardiff City in 2016 and has since played over 100 matches for the club, scoring 11 goals.

Rabbi Matondo represented Wales at U18 level before making his senior international debut for England in 2018. 

His impressive performances at the youth level have seen him linked with several top European clubs including Barcelona and Manchester United, but he has so far resisted transfer offers from those sides to remain at Cardiff City Stadium.

In September 2019, Rabbi Matonda joined Bundesliga side FC Schalke 04 on a season-long loan deal. Rabbi Matondo is a central midfielder who has played for Manchester City since 2016. Rabbi Matondo started his career with Schalke 04 II before joining Manchester City in 2019. 

He made his debut for the senior team in 2019 and has been a regular member of their squad ever since.

Rabbi Matondo has represented Wales at youth level, but he is most well-known for his international career with England U15s, Wales U17s, and Wales U21s to date. He is known as an excellent passer of the ball and possesses great vision on the pitch.

50. Mark Harris

Mark Harris Career

  • 2006–2017: Cardiff City
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2017–: Cardiff City: 78: (9)
  • 2018–2019: → Newport County (loan): 16: (2)
  • 2019: → Port Vale (loan): 6: (0)
  • 2019–2020: → Wrexham (loan): 24: (3)
  • 2014–2015: Wales U17: 2: (1)
  • 2016–2017: Wales U19: 5: (1)
  • 2017: Wales U20: 3: (0)
  • 2017–2020: Wales U21: 19: (3)
  • 2021–: Wales: 5: (0)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 1 January 2023 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 1 June 2022 (UTC)

Harris was born in Swansea, Wales, and started playing football for local club Cardiff City at the age of seven. Harris made his professional debut for Cardiff City in a 2-0 win over Barnsley in October 2017.

He has played 43 games for Cardiff City scoring 8 goals, including 4 in the Championship during the 2017/2018 season. In February 2018 Mark Harris joined Premier League side Cardiff City on loan from CardiffCity until the end of the season.

On 27 April 2018, he made his debut for Cardiff City coming on as a substitute against Fulham.

Harris signed a contract extension with CardiffCity which will keep him at the club until 2021. Harris was born in Cardiff, Wales, and started his professional career at Cardiff City. Harris spent the majority of his senior career with Newport County before moving to Port Vale on loan in 2019.

Harris made three appearances for Wales U21s during 2018–19 before being called up to the full national team for a friendly against Denmark later that year.

He returned to Newport County after the international break but re-joined Wrexham on loan until the end of the season shortly afterward. Harris is currently contracted to Welsh side Wrexham until 2023 and is hopeful of adding more caps and goals to his record over the next few years.

51. Tom Lawrence

Forward

Tom Lawrence Career

  • 2002–2013: Manchester United
  • 2013–2014: Manchester United
  • 2013–2014: Carlisle United (loan)
  • 2014: Yeovil Town (loan)
  • 2014–2017: Leicester City
  • 2014: Rotherham United (loan)
  • 2015–2016: Blackburn Rovers (loan)
  • 2016: Cardiff City (loan)
  • 2016–2017: Ipswich Town (loan)
  • 2017–2022: Derby County
  • 2022: Rangers
  • 2010–2013: Wales U17
  • 2012–2013: Wales U19
  • 2013–2014: Wales U21
  • 2015: Wales
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 18:46, 27 August 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 21

Thomas Morris Lawrence was born on 13 January 1994 in Wrexham, Wales. He is a forward and has played for Rangers since 2016. Lawrence made his senior debut with Manchester United in 2013 and has also played for Everton and Liverpool during his career so far.

Tom Lawrence is a talented young midfielder who has had an impressive career in the English Premier League. 

He started his career with Manchester United, but he soon moved on to Carlisle United on loan. He then spent two seasons at Yeovil Town before joining Leicester City in 2014.

Lawrence was part of the Wales squad that won the U21 World Cup in 2015 and 2016. In 2017, he joined Ipswich Town on loan for one season before moving to Derby County in 2018. 

He signed for Rangers in Scotland this past offseason and is looking forward to playing there for many years to come.

Also Played For: ipswich fc, scottish premier league

Final Words

. . Wales has produced some of the best rugby players in history and it is no wonder why. Legends such as Gareth Edwards, Mike Phillips, Jonathan Davies and Shane Williams have all made a lasting impression on the game.

With so many talented individuals to choose from, it is hard to decide who deserves top spot on this list. However, if we were to narrow things down, then we would have to place Shane Williams at the top. He was an incredible player with immense talent and speed that greatly influenced Welsh rugby during his time.

Photo of author

Andrew Kovacs

I am a Head Boys Soccer Coach at Amherst Regional Public Schools in Massachusetts. I have coached for the past five years and I am currently working on my master's degree in Exercise Science. I coach soccer because I love the game and I enjoy being around the kids. It is rewarding to see them develop their skills and grow as individuals. LinkedIn

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