Wales’ men have become accustomed to playing at major tournaments in recent times, but in March they were given a stark reminder of how failure can sting when their faltering campaign to qualify for Euro 2024 was eventually ended by a penalty shootout defeat against Poland in their play-off final.

There was already pressure on Page and, after he oversaw an embarrassing goalless draw with Gibraltar and a 4-0 thrashing by Slovakia in June’s friendlies, the man who took Wales to the 2022 World Cup was sacked.

Adams again led the FAW’s recruitment process and turned to former captain Bellamy, who had not managed a team at senior level, but was building a reputation as a promising coach.

Five months and six games in, so far, so inspired.

Wales won three and drew three matches to top their Nations League group and return to the top tier, effectively guaranteeing themselves a World Cup play-off place in the process.

Equally important to Bellamy was that they instilled what he called an “identity”, a clear way of playing, in and out of possession.

“It’s been exciting. Craig’s been a breath of fresh air,” says Adams.

“Rob Page did a fantastic job. I just feel like it lost a bit of momentum in the middle of the year, and we had to make a change in order to get this thing moving again and bring a new energy and new focus to the group.

“Craig’s done that in spades. He’s been so visible. He’s been doing lots of talks around the country and really engaging with Welsh people

“And on pitch, there is an identity to the team which I believe we needed. We needed to be a team that had more of the ball, that showed a level of bravery to get on the ball and play more with possession.

“Craig has done that very quickly. I thought it would take a little bit longer than what it has done. We’ve managed to accelerate that process pretty well, and it’s been unbelievable buy-in from everyone. So it’s been really positive.”

When Bellamy took the job, he said his primary goal was to not only qualify for the 2026 World Cup, but make an impact when they get there – as Wales failed to do in Qatar two years ago.

Wales have been drawn in a qualifying group with Belgium, North Macedonia, Kazakhstan and Liechtenstein, with matches starting in March 2025.

“Having a clear sense of the direction you’re going to take in the World Cup is really important for Craig,” Adams says.

“We’re set up really nicely and the draw, I think, is pretty favourable. We’re really looking forward to next year.”