Former Sheffield United defender set to unveil his picks after being handed top international job

After confirming former Sheffield United defender Robert Page will take charge of Wales’ next three international fixtures, the country’s football association could shed further light on its decision to temporarily promote the 46-year-old to the top job following Ryan Giggs’ arrest on suspicion of assaulting his partner when their latest squad is announced.

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Page, who made 128 appearances for United after arriving from Watford in 2001, has been tasked with overseeing the forthcoming internationals against the USA, the Republic of Ireland and Finland after Giggs agreed to take leave of absence. He has denied the allegation.

“The Football Association of Wales and Ryan Giggs have mutually agreed that he will not be involved in the upcoming international camp,” a statement, issued by the FAW yesterday, read. “Our agreed immediate priority is preparing the team for the upcoming international matches.

“Robert Page, with Ryan’s support, will take charge for the next three matches against the USA, Republic of Ireland and Finland, supported by Albert Stuivenberg...the FAW will not be making any further comment at this current time.”

Page had previously served as Giggs’ assistant, following a spell as head coach of Wales’ under-21 side, and is known to have championed Rhys Norrington-Davies’ elevation onto the senior stage. The United defender, who is scheduled to spend the rest of the season on loan with Luton Town, won his first full cap against Bulgaria last month.

Page is scheduled to unveil his selections for those fixtures tomorrow, with United’s Ethan Ampadu also likely to be involved.