James Chester has revealed how Wales players were still going strong at 3am every night in China – although it was certainly no party.
The Aston Villa defender says the squad prepared for their return to domestic duties with late nights – to counter the time difference – at the China Cup.
Ryan Giggs took charge of the national side for the first time in the four-team competition in Nanning during the international break and contended with an eight-hour time difference with the UK.
Chester believes their decision to keep to a four-hour time difference during their week stay in Asia will enhance their preparation for this weekend’s fixtures.
“It’s been a bit strange staying up till half three, four in the morning, and having your breakfast at one,” said Chester.
“But it was for that reason, to make sure when we get home it’s not as difficult to get back to normal life.
“It was a very long time ago when I last stayed up that late, and it certainly won’t be a regular thing.
“It has been strange but it will make it a lot easier getting back – and some of us have got massive games coming up.”
Villa travel to Chester’s former club Hull on Saturday aiming to maintain their Championship promotion push. Wales teammates Chris Gunter, Billy Bodin, Lee Evans and Marley Watkins will return to domestic action earlier on Good Friday.
Giggs’ squad returned home on Tuesday after losing 1-0 to Uruguay in the China Cup final, as Paris St Germain striker and player of the tournament Edinson Cavani scored the winner.
Chester believes Uruguay could be one of the dark horses at this summer’s World Cup if Cavani continues to impress alongside strike partner Luis Suarez.
“They are probably one of the best you’re going to come up against,” Chester said.
“If you qualify for top tournaments that’s the standard, they are top quality.
“We’ve done a lot of work in a short space of time, but it’s one of the best attacks you’re going to face in world football.
“From the moment I started playing international football, it was for that reason. Hopefully there is more of that to come.”
