Coleman wants Shawcross for Wales

Wales manager Chris Coleman has confirmed he is keen to bring Stoke City defender Ryan Shawcross into the international fold.

The England-born 24-year-old is eligible for Wales due to being raised in the country, having represented them at under-15 level.

But, an offer from Manchester United’s academy saw the centre-back move back to England soon after and he, eventually, represented England at under-21 level.

Shawcross has previously insisted he would reject any call-up to the Wales national side as he continues to hope for another call-up to the England squad after failing to make the field against Egypt in February 2010, but Coleman is seemingly undeterred.

“My job is to try and improve Wales,” Coleman said.

“Ryan is a good player who could strengthen us.

“We don’t have a huge pool. We have to make the best of what we have. We could look at Ryan.”

Coleman also revealed he intends to speak to captain Aaron Ramsey before an approach for the Stoke man is made.

Defender Shawcross ruled the Arsenal midfielder out for nine months following a leg-breaking tackle in November 2010.

The two are yet to reconcile, with Ramsey choosing to ignore Shawcross’ attempted apology at the time.

Coleman said: “I will have a conversation with Aaron because he’s somebody I respect a great deal. He’s our captain and an important player.

“I won’t shy away from it because there are issues.”