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The Welsh Wizards

Introduction

Wales may be a small country but it has produced giants in the game of football. Despite being professional underdogs since 1876, our best footballers have performed magic tricks before our eyes. Who are these wizards who have made Wales proud?

Helped by historians of the game, we have picked our Welsh Wizards. Individually they are among the best the world has ever seen. Together, they symbolise what Welsh football is all about.

You may not agree with our choices. Some players are not in their usual positions, but we could not leave them out. Each generation has its heroes on the pitch. You'll have the chance to add your favourites to the exhibition. Until then…

Could our players have played together?

Back in the 19th century the typical formation was 2-2-6. The forwards attacked individually and hardly ever passed the ball. At least until the Scots taught everyone how. 2-3-5 was a typical line up before the Second World War. Modern teams play 4-4-2. Each era's game was very different. Who is to judge which is best?

Did you know that in 1930 the FA passed the 'Never on a Saturday' rule? It stopped Welsh players in English clubs playing for their country except during the working week. Tireless campaigning by Ted Robbins got the rule scrapped in 1934.