Joe Allen: Midfielder to be remembered as Welsh national treasure

Allen’s Wales career began in 2009, when he came on as a substitute for Jack Collison in a friendly win over Estonia which was played in front of 4,000 fans in Llanelli.

They were tough times for Wales, then managed by John Toshack, but better days were ahead.

Allen’s influence grew as Wales made strides under Gary Speed, before he established national-treasure status during the Chris Coleman era.

Allen shone thanks to technical quality and vision on the ball as well as tenacity and desire when out of possession.

He was brave in any physical battle but also had the courage to play.

Allen’s blend of skills brought many good days. But if one period in his career is to be remembered above all others, it will surely be the summer of 2016.

Allen was an ever-present in the Wales side who stunned the nation – and the football world – by reaching the last four at Euro 2016.

Wales had not been to a major tournament for 58 years, meaning expectations were modest as Coleman’s team went to France.

Yet Allen, Bale and the rest conjured a glorious run to the semi-finals which goes down as one of the great achievements in the history of Welsh sport.

Allen’s place in the team of the tournament was a mark of his mighty contribution.

There were more international landmarks to come, with Allen playing his part as Wales reached a second successive European Championship and then helping Rob Page end the long wait for a World Cup appearance.