Wales announce squad for first World Cup tournament in 64 years

Wales manager Rob Page has announced his 26-man squad for the upcoming World Cup in Qatar.

The tournament is the first World Cup Wales have qualified for in 64 years - when they famously reached the quarter-finals.

Page had been made to sweat over the fitness of star player and captain Gareth Bale, who has recently declared himself still not 100% despite some impressive showings in the MLS.

The inclusion of Joe Allen (32) has also caught the attention of many, with some believing the injured Swansea midfielder to be too much of a risk.

Tottenham's Ben Davies (29), Nice's Aaron Ramsey and Fulham's Dan James (24) were never really in doubt, while Bournemouth's Kieffer Moore (30) will likely lead the line after some solid displays in the Premier League so far this season.

Wales kick off their World Cup campaign against USA on November 21st, before facing Iran on the 25th.

They will then have the mouth-watering home nations tie against England to contend with on November 29th.

Speaking to Sky Sports News shortly after the squad announcement, Page warned his players of the importance of a strong start in their opening Group B game: "We don't have to win it - but we can't lose. 

"We did it at the Euros with a draw against Switzerland and started the tournament on a positive.

"We'll go for the win but we'd take the positives from a draw."

Wales World Cup squad in full:

Goalkeepers: Wayne Hennessey, Danny Ward, Adam Davies.

Defenders: Ben Davies, Ben Cabango, Tom Lockyer, Joe Rodon, Chris Mepham, Ethan Ampadu, Chris Gunter, Neco Williams, Connor Roberts.

Midfielders: Sorba Thomas, Joe Allen, Matthew Smith, Dylan Levitt, Harry Wilson, Joe Morrell, Jonny Williams, Aaron Ramsey, Rubin Colwill.

Forwards: Gareth Bale, Kieffer Moore, Mark Harris, Brennan Johnson, Dan James.