Charlton defender Chris Gunter downplays his contribution to Wales – as Euros can see him add to 100 caps

Chris Gunter will be hoping to add to his 100 caps for Wales at the European Championships next month – but has downplayed his contribution for his country.

The Charlton right-back became the first player to make a century of appearances for Wales when he featured against Mexico in March.

Wales’ first Euro 2020 match is against Switzerland on June 12 with their squad expected to be announced at the end of May.

Gunter made 36 appearances for the Addicks after signing as a free agent in October following his release by Reading.

He was an unused sub for five of their last seven League One matches.

Gunter has made more appearances for Wales than legends such as Ian Rush, Mark Hughes and Neville Southall.

“When you mention those type of names that you don’t need to say them twice to anyone around the world who knows football,” said Gunter, in an interview which took place with the South London Press in December.

“When people say you’ll get more caps then some names that were household names at the highest level of the game, you see yourself as a normal guy. A normal kid from Wales. It’s strange when your name is put in that sort of bracket.

“So massively proud of what’s happened. I think I played 67 consecutively and people were saying you’ll be most capped and potentially the first to get to 100 caps, which has always been in the background.

“I was always keen to say: ‘That’s brilliant – individual caps and records are fantastic – but whenever I finish football and look back I want to say not only did I do that but also some success and good times to look back on’.

“Fortunately in the last four or five years we’ve gone on to another level. To have some of the experiences that Wales have given me throughout my career – but especially the last period – I’m more thankful to Wales. I don’t feel I’ve given a lot to Wales. It’s given me so many opportunities and experiences that will last a lifetime.

“If things go well hopefully there is a bit more to come before I finish.”

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD