Cardiff will stage the opening game of the 2028 European Championships with Wales co-hosting alongside England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.

Bellamy, who is eager to lead Wales at Euro 2028, has shown his willingness to give opportunities to players in the two years he has been in charge.

Among them Dylan Lawlor, Cardiff City’s 20-year-old defender, who has progressed from the Under-19 side to becoming a regular for the senior squad and gaining six caps.

“Even thinking back to a couple of the boys who were in the under-19s last season,” Gunter added.

“You look at Dylan now, who has gone on and he’s playing and I think he’s played the last four senior games.

“It can change really quickly and move.”

Arsenal defender Brayden Clarke previously featured at Under-17s Euro finals in 2023 and 2024 and is the first Welsh player to be selected for three Uefa youth tournaments.

“There was naturally always going to be a few big calls and disappointing people, not something I overly enjoyed,” added Gunter, who succeeded Craig Knight as Under-19s boss.

“But I’m really pleased with the strength of the squad we’ve got now.

“It’s something that has felt like it’s been a long way away for a while and then really quickly now it’s upon us.

“I know the players, you know, they can’t wait to get going.”