The father of former Wales manager Gary Speed is delighted that Wales have 'finally' qualified for a major tournament and believes that his son would have been 'immensely proud' of the achievement of Chris Coleman's side.
Wales secured a place at Euro 2016 on Saturday night, despite a 2-0 defeat to Bosnia & Herzegovina, as Cyprus' surprise 2-1 victory against Israel confirmed Wales' progression.
Coleman took charge of the Wales national side in 2011 after Speed's tragic death, and his father, Robert, is proud that his son's name has been mentioned throughout the qualification process.
"I'm absolutely delighted Wales have finally done it. And it gives me immense pride that Gary's name has been mentioned - by the players and the fans - so often along the way in this qualifying campaign.
"I was down in Cardiff for the draw against Israel last month and I've never experienced an atmosphere like it. The fans started singing Gary's favourite song - I Can't Take My Eyes Off You - and then chanted his name. It really got to me. The hairs on the back of my neck stood up. I was in tears.
"Watching this team has given me so much pleasure and Chris Coleman deserves a huge amount of credit for what he's achieved. It was so difficult for him to follow Gary but he's done a great job. The spirit in the side is something very special.
Wales at 1958 World Cup in Sweden
"I'm actually an Englishman, born in Chester. But Gary's influence has certainly turned me into a Wales fan - I look out for their result before England's these days. I've always got a daffodil inside my coat pocket. And there's no doubt about it, I'll be in France to support them next summer.
"Like a few of the players have already mentioned, qualification is a fitting tribute to what Gary put in place with this group of players. There's no doubt he would be immensely proud of their success. I know he's been watching from above and cheering the team on. I'd like to think he's been an inspiration."
