Special welcome home for Wales squad

Chris Coleman’s team, featuring in a major tournament for the first time since the 1958 World Cup, exceeded all expectations by reaching the semi-finals in France before being knocked out by Portugal. 

Fans greeted the players and backroom staff at Cardiff airport before the squad went on an open top bus parade through the city.

“They are amazing scenes and we’ll never forget,” said talismanic forward Gareth Bale. “It’s very special seeing what it means to the whole country.It’s an incredible feeling and there is no prouder honour than putting on the red shirt for Wales and to share it with all these fans is incredible.” 

Midfielder Aaron Ramsey was also moved by the welcome home.

“To see all the support has been phenomenal,” said Ramsey. “Because we have been away from it we haven’t seen the impact it has had back here.