Former Reading stalwart Chris Gunter has been appointed Head Coach of the Wales Under-19 side.

The 35-year-old spent eight years with the Royals and made nearly 350 appearances in the Premier League and Championship.

He appeared at Wembley Stadium for both the 2015 FA Cup semi-final and 2017 Championship play-off final, famously enjoying a strong bond with fellow right-sided player Garath McCleary.

A consistent performer in an 18-year career, the right-back had spells with the likes of Nottingham Forest, Tottenham Hotspur and Charlton Athletic, retiring in 2023.

(Image: PA)

As well as enjoying a strong club career, Gunter is the most-capped male Welsh international, racking up 109 caps for his national team and appearing in Euro 2016, Euro 2020 and the 2022 World Cup.

Retiring last year, the defender was part of Rob Page's coaching staff in the senior side, but the appointment of Craig Bellamy saw this come to an end.

Stepping into the youth system to continue his coaching career, Gunter will oversee the Under19s- an age category where he made three appearances in 2006.

Speaking to the FAW website, Gunter said: “I'm really proud to be given the opportunity and I’m excited to get going in a different role."

“It's a good opportunity for me to learn and improve on my side, but more importantly I want to give my support and experience to the young players coming through.

“Having that experience of coming through the pathway with the under-17s, 19s, 21s and then the seniors, I think that can really help me in this role."