By Tom Prosser
Wales chief Noel Mooney has claimed war-torn Ukraine must play their World Cup play-off ties by June – or else pull out of the tournament.
Both Wales and Scotland backed Ukraine’s request to postpone their play-off semi-final against the Scots at Hampden Park following Russia’s invasion of their neighbour.
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But with the war still raging – and no date yet fixed for the Glasgow clash – FA of Wales chief executive Mooney reckons the clock is ticking.
If Wales beat Austria at home next Thursday, then they will play the winners of the Scotland-Ukraine tie with the prize of a place in Qatar in November at stake.
“I don’t think it can be postponed further, we are not aware of anything past June right now,” said Mooney, who previously worked for UEFA as head of strategic development.
“Of course, we are hoping that Ukraine will be okay for June, but obviously we are going home and seeing the news every night and clearly we need a plan for all situations.
“If we are fortunate enough to beat Austria, then the play-off final will be like our World Cup final so we have to make this matter our absolute priority.
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“We haven’t discussed it in detail yet as UEFA aren’t openly discussing that, but they will certainly be planning for all eventualities amongst themselves.”
Mooney is keen to stress he has sympathy for Ukraine and insists Wales will be as flexible as possible in June by potentially playing five matches in the space of just two weeks.
“It’s strange talking about football when you see what is happening out there but we all may have to do things which aren’t ideal for our teams,” he added.
“It’s a difficult window even without the extra match. The Scotland Vs Ukraine winner will have to play six matches in just two weeks which is very difficult to do.”
