Aaron Ramsey has revealed his burning ambition to prove himself as one of Europe’s top players when Wales head to France next month.
The Arsenal midfielder is desperate to make amends for an ultimately disappointing season for his club, by showing his individual talent at the Euro 2016 finals.
Still only 25 years old, Ramsey was an integral part of manager Chris Coleman’s qualification campaign, but is determined both he and the team seize their opportunity.
“We have shown that on our day, we have a team capable of beating anyone and that’s how he will approach the finals,” said Ramsey.
“I think we are in a good place. One of my targets for this season was to help Wales to qualify and to show what I’m capable of doing on the big stage.
“Everybody is watching. Everyone’s eyes are on you. I want to prove to everyone just what I’m capable of doing.”
Ramsey’s team-mate Jack Wilshere is back in the fold after returning from injury, and the former Cardiff City teenager feels Wilshere could be a key component for England when Wales face them in Lens in four weeks’ time.
“He has a lot of quality, and I’m sure Roy Hodgson knows everything he needs to know about him. He can definitely be one of their main players in the tournament.
“They have a lot of options though, a lot of players in form at the moment, and I’m sure they can mix and match, and bring players in and out and still be dangerous.
“Hopefully, now Jack can stay fit and stay strong for us for next season.”
Ramsey says Arsenal missed an opportunity to win the Premier League in what has been a “frustrating” campaign for the Gunners.
They finished second in the Premier League, behind champions Leicester City, but with the likes of Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United under par for much of the campaign, Ramsey feels they should have taken advantage.
Arsenal were top of the table during the Christmas period, but they won just four of their next 12 league games to fall behind in the title race.
“That’s why is has been so frustrating this season [other big teams slipping up], it feels like a missed opportunity, but we are where we are, and we have to accept that.
“Full credit to Leicester for finishing the job off, but I’m sure we’ll be back stronger for next season. It will be an interesting season next year and hopefully we can come out on top.
“We slipped up a few times in some crucial moments throughout the season, and that’s what we’ve got to improve on for next year.”
