Wales take positives from defeat in Croatia

John Toshack's side were given little hope as they travelled to Osijek for their season-ending friendly against the Euro 2008 quarter-finalists with a squad of just 17. Toshack, who was denied the services of 15 senior players for the match for a variety of reasons, was forced to make seven changes and handed out five new caps.

Not surprisingly his inexperienced line-up failed to hold out against a Croatia team boasting an inspired Luka Modric and were ultimately beaten 2-0 after superb strikes from Ivan Rakitic and Drago Gabric.

Yet Slaven Bilic's men were frustrated for large spells by the spirited Welsh, who were also unfortunate to have what would have been the game's opening goal disallowed.

Defender Chris Gunter said: "It was going to be a tough game, it was what we expected.

"But in the first half, apart from the goal, Wayne (Hennessey] didn't really have a save to make and with a few different decisions we could have been going in at half-time a lot different. I think overall there are a few positives to come out of it.

"If injuries crop up these are the boys that are going to be needed but I'm sure they'll be looking to get in on their own merit anyway, not just because of injuries.

"To get a first cap is a proud moment and one for them to build on."