Thatcher out of Wales trip

Manchester City full-back Ben Thatcher has withdrawn from the Wales squad which departed today for the World Cup qualifier in Azerbaijan.

Thatcher has been struck down with a stomach illness while Wales have also sent back Wolves defender Rob Edwards and Tottenham midfielder Simon Davies to their clubs.

Edwards has an ankle problem and Davies is still recovering from shin splints, but both will be expected back in Cardiff on Sunday when Wales return from Baku to prepare for next Wednesday’s qualifier against Northern Ireland.

Wales have also decided to take only two of their four goalkeepers for Saturday’s match with Paul Jones and Mark Crossley travelling. Danny Coyne (Burnley) and Darren Ward (Norwich) will also meet up again with the squad in Cardiff on Sunday.

Wales also announced today that assistant manager Eric Harrison has retired. The former Manchester United youth team coach has been suffering from ill health.

Wales boss Mark Hughes paid tribute to Harrison who has been his number two for four years.

“I would like to say a big thank you to Eric for all his hard work,” he said. “He has been the perfect sounding board for me, his knowledge of players’ tactics and preparation has been invaluable.”

It is unlikely Hughes will appoint a new assistant following the return to his coaching staff of Mark Bowen.