"?Liverpool's Danny Ward has hailed a 'crazy year' after starting in goal for Wales against Slovakia on Saturday - his nation's first match at a major championship for well over half a century, according to a report in the "?Independent.
Ward came into the tournament as Wayne Hennessey's backup but was thrust into the limelight in Bordeaux when the Crystal Palace stopper was ruled out of the game with a back spasm.
The start, and Wales' 2-1 win, capped an incredible season for Ward, which also saw him start two Premier League games for Liverpool.
Danny Ward hails 'crazy year' after unexpected Wales appearance. @GlennMoore7 reports https://t.co/dPsk98xDma pic.twitter.com/uVENH0ihQz
Speaking in the aftermath of the victory, which was secured by goals from Gareth Bale and Hal Robson-Kanu, "?he said: "Times have changed. That's football, it can change in a blink of an eye. It has been a crazy year. Hopefully I can keep getting more experiences."?
He continued: "I wouldn't say it was intimidating, more excitement,"? he said. "As a player you want to be involved in big occasions like this, on the world stage, and the fact you are doing it for your country is a special feeling.
"It became clear I was playing about a couple of hours before the game. I knew Wayne was struggling but regardless of whether he is 100% fit, 50% fit, or completely out you have to go about your business as normal, go out and train hard all through the week and hope you get the chance - and when you do you have got to grab it with both hands."?
? @dan_ward52 in action for #WAL yesterday. #EURO2016 pic.twitter.com/7FWMz2B11d
The 22-year-old was praised by Wales manager Chris Coleman, who said: "For Danny to come into that atmosphere and perform like that was outstanding."?
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