Dilemma for Giggs as Ledley and Lockyer out of Wales squad

Wales manager Ryan Giggs has made two changes to his 25 man squad for upcoming matches against Spain and the Republic of Ireland, as Derby County's Ledley and Bristol Rovers defender Lockyer have had to withdraw from the games after suffering from injury. The pair have been replaced by Cardiff's Jazz Richards, and young Leicester City forward George Thomas; who will be hoping to earn his first senior cap after impressing for Wales U21s last month. 

Another injury concern for Giggs is talisman Gareth Bale, who after sitting out of Real Madrid's Champions League defeat away in Russia, is still nursing an injury of his own. "He had a little groin strain. The scan has come back clear and he expects to play on the weekend," confirmed Giggs. 

Arsenal's Aaron Ramsey has been named in the squad, despite withdrawing from his club's Europa League tie away to Azerbaijani outfit Qarabag, as his wife is expecting twins. 

And his national team coach Giggs, does not believe that the contract-stand off between the midfielder and Arsenal will have any bearing upon how he performs for his country, saying: "What I have seen is a fantastic professional. I expect the same. What's going on at his club didn't really impact on when we met up with us so I expect the same."

The friendly against Spain will be the first time Wales have faced the former World cup and two time European Champions since a 3-0 win in 1985, in which Mark Hughes scored a sensational scissor kick goal. 

Manager Giggs has expressed his excitement ahead of facing Spain this month: "It's a fantastic game to be involved in but five days later we have the Nations League, which is obviously more important as there's points available. It's getting the balance right for the game against the Republic and for a game everyone will want to be involved in. The more important game is Tuesday but I have to recognise all the players will want to be involved in what is a fantastic occasion."