Wales 0 – 1 Ireland: Chris Coleman speaks about future after 2018 World Cup dream ends

Wales had the chance to book their place in their first World Cup tournament since 1958 last night in Cardiff. 

But they were left stunned as James McClean’s second-half goal ensured Ireland leapfrogged them into a play-off place and crushed their dreams. 

And Coleman, who guided Wales to the Euro 2016 semi-finals before being knocked out by eventual winners Portugal, has now opened up about his intentions for the future. 

But he will first attend to his players, who described as being “inconsolable” following the defeat.

“All I can think about right now is the faces of the players in the dressing room and their disappointment,” Coleman told Sky Sports when asked about his future as Wales boss. 

“They are inconsolable but they should be very proud. 

“I will take some time to let the dust settle, we will sit down and have a chat and take it from there.  

“This was our first defeat at home for four years. Four years ago we were playing against Macedonia in front of 8,000 players. It is different now.”

He also heaped praise on Republic of Ireland boss Martin O’Neill for his efforts and hopes they can progress to the World Cup finals. 

”Good luck to Martin O’Neill, he has done a tremendous job and I hope he gets them to the World Cup,” he added.