JOE Ledley insists the Wales squad want Chris Coleman to be in charge of the national team “for many years to come”.

Coleman, whose current contract ends after Euro 2016, has started talks with the Football Association of Wales over a new deal.

Reports linking Coleman with Aston Villa and former club Swansea City have surfaced this week as Wales prepare for friendlies against Northern Ireland and Ukraine.

Speaking ahead of the Irish clash at the Cardiff City Stadium on Thursday, Crystal Palace midfielder Ledley threw his weight behind Coleman remaining Wales manager.

When asked what he made of Coleman being connected with positions at Premier League clubs, he said: “Of course he is going to be linked.

“What he has done for Wales and this nation is remarkable.

“He’s a fantastic manager so it doesn’t surprise me but we obviously want to keep him with Wales.

“I think this is just the start of something new.”

And when asked whether Coleman has hinted if he is ready to return to club football, Ledley added: “There are no hints at all, he has focused on this training camp at the moment and obviously the build-up for the Euros, so nothing has changed at all.

“It’s all sort of new to us to be fair but I’m sure something will be sorted out sooner or later.

“He’s here at the moment so that’s the main thing.

“We want him to be here for many years to come.

“What he has done for us and the whole nation is remarkable, and hopefully he can continue and help for many years to come, especially with the young kids coming through as well.”

As for Thursday's game, Wales will be missing a number of faces including Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey.

But Ledley feels it is a perfect opportunity for others to show what they are made of ahead of the Euros.

“There are a few players here we haven’t seen for a while so it give someone an opportunity to come in and show what they can do,” he said.

“And obviously with these two games I’m sure they will get game time as well.

“It’s important for those who come in to make a stamp on the game and hopefully get a place in the final squad.”