Ashley Williams and Alan Sheehan have been appointed as assistant coaches for the Wales national team, bolstering Craig Bellamy’s backroom staff before the start of their Nations League campaign.
Williams, a retired defender who earned 86 caps and captained Wales to the Euro 2016 semi-finals, has moved into his first senior coaching role. The 42-year-old, who holds a UEFA A Licence, has recently been involved in age-group coaching camps but this marks his step up to the senior setup.
Sheehan, 39, joins the staff nearly a year after departing his head coach position at Swansea City in November 2025. The former Republic of Ireland youth international brings extensive experience from assistant roles at Swansea, Southampton, and Luton Town.
The appointments address vacancies left by recent departures. James Rowberry stepped down due to commitments with Stoke City, while Dutch coach Piet Cremers left in July to take charge of Club NXT, the youth academy side of Club Brugge. Andrew Crofts remains as an assistant coach despite also holding a role at Tottenham Hotspur.
Wales begin their Nations League A campaign on Thursday, 24 September against Portugal in Lisbon, followed by a match against Denmark in Copenhagen on Sunday, 27 September. Bellamy is scheduled to announce his squad on Tuesday, 15 September.
When exactly does Bellamy announce the squad? September 15th, right?
Finally addressing those vacancies properly. Rowberry and Cremers leaving created gaps.
I remember Williams captaining us at Euro 2016. Perfect choice for leadership.
Portugal away next? Nervous already… but this coaching staff looks solid.
Sheehan brings Premier League experience. Good call by Bellamy to bring in fresh eyes.
Wait, did I read this right? 86 caps for Williams, not 86 goals?
Great appointment. Ashley Williams knows the shirt and understands the pressure Wales face.