Arsenal's Aaron Ramsey set for Wales captaincy against Belgium if Ashley Williams loses fitness race

Skipper: Aaron Ramsey could be captain against Belgium
PHILIPPE LOPEZ/AFP/Getty Images
Vaishali Bhardwaj27 June 2016

Chris Coleman could hand the Wales captaincy over to Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey if skipper Ashley Williams does not win his fitness race in time to feature against Belgium.

Williams collided with Wales teammate Jonny Williams in the 80th minute of the nation's last-16 win over Northern Ireland on Saturday and, despite appearing to suffer a shoulder injury, continued on in the game.

He was taken to the hospital for treatment over the weekend, but Coleman admitted there were questions over whether the defender will recover in time for Wales' quarter-final clash with Belgium in Lille on Friday evening.

Should he not, Coleman could hand the armband to Ramsey - who was relieved of his duties as captain in 2012 after Coleman felt he was struggling to deal with the pressure of being skipper at the age of 20.

"I believe that Aaron will be the captain of Wales one day when it is not Ashley Williams," Coleman said.

"You have Ramsey, Bale, Joe Allen, Chris Gunter, they have experience."

When also asked whether he would be hesitant to pick James Collins in place of Williams for the Belgium game, Coleman said: "I wouldn't have any [qualms].

"He is that type of experienced character, not lacking in confidence as a man. He would relish it."

Speaking more about Williams' injury, he added: "He's a bit tender with his shoulder. The next 24-48 hours will be key.

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"It will be crucial whether it's bruising, whether it's impact or - hopefully not - there's damage to any ligaments or a tear in his muscle."

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