Gunter Ruled Out – Can Matthews Step Up?

Wales’ already depleted squad has been hit by another late withrawal after Chris Gunter joined the list of unavailable players already including the likes of Bellamy, Davies, Collison and Collins.

Gunter has been suffering with a virus and has not joined up with his Countrymen, a headache for John Toshack but one that could provide a huge opportunity for Cardiff City defender Adam Matthews.

Teenager Matthews has broken into the Bluebirds starting XI and impressed. He has an excellent temperament and shown tremendous potential leading Toshack to select his for the experience of being in the senior squad. However, after Gunter’s withdrawal – Matthews may yet win his first cap against Scotland on Saturday.

Most likely is that Gareth Bale will play on the left with Sam Ricketts deployed at right back. There is no speicialist cover available in that position, but Danny Gabbidon could also switch to the right.