Chris Coleman: 'Wales strong enough without Gareth Bale'

Coleman: 'Wales strong enough without Bale'
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Gareth Bale's absence through a calf strain is nothing that Wales are not used to, according to Dragons manager Chris Coleman.

Chris Coleman has played down Gareth Bale's absence for Wales, insisting that the nation can cope without their talisman.

The Dragons will not be able to call on the Real Madrid forward, who is out with a calf strain, for their World Cup Group D qualifier in Georgia on Friday night.

Coleman, however, has had to make do without at least one of Bale, Aaron Ramsey and Joe Allen for five of their eight qualifying games to date, and the Wales boss believes that his squad has enough depth to manage.

"We're used to it," Coleman told Sky Sports News when asked if Bale's absence would affect the principality's chances of qualifying for Russia. "It's international football so you have to get on with it. We're still strong enough to go to other countries and get points. Tomorrow night is no different.

"In many ways our bench is as strong as it's been. Some young talent, but in terms of potential and talent we have a really good bench.

"Gareth Bale missing from any team is a loss, don't get me wrong, but that's not to say what we've got is not enough, because it is good enough to compete against anybody. That's the attitude we'll have tomorrow, no doubt."

Wales currently sit second in the group, four points behind leaders Serbia with two games to go.

Dave Edwards in action for Wales against England on June 16, 2016
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