Euro 2016: Ashley Williams in danger of missing quarter-final injured with Chris Coleman admitting ‘next 24 to 48 hours key’

WALES coaching staff are holding their breath over the fitness of skipper Ashley Williams after he appeared to injure his shoulder in the Dragons’ 1-0 win over Northern Ireland.

The 31-year-old was involved in an ugly collision with team-mate Jonny Williams late in the game and fell to the ground awkwardly.

Swansea star Williams will have a scan in the morning as Wales look to asses the fitness of their defensive lynchpin.

After several minutes of treatment Williams could be seen holding his shoulder following the collision with the Crystal Palace midfielder.

And after a few more minutes’ play, he had to shout “I’m fine” to the Wales bench as Chris Coleman attempted to bring on James Collins in his place.

Coleman said: “Ash is a bit tender with his shoulder.

“The next 24 to 48 hours will be key, whether its bruising and just impact, or whether there’s damage to any ligaments or a tear in his muscle. Hopefully not that.”

Gareth Bale tweeted a picture of the Wales squad in the changing room after the game, but Williams appeared with heavy cellophane strapping, a sling and a bag of ice on his shoulder.

Coleman added: “We won’t really know until tomorrow, but he was struggling, couldn’t move his arm.

“I was going to take Ash off, had got James Collins ready to come on. But he said he was okay to continue and I trust my captain.

“I’d like to keep him on the pitch, keep his presence out there for us and he made one or two important blocks.

“I’m delighted for Ash. It hasn’t always been sunshine for us, he’s been consistent throughout everything and thoroughly deserves it.”