CELTIC striker John Hartson, pictured, is set to become the latest big-name Wales player to pull out of tonight's friendly with Hungary at the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff (kick-off 8.0pm).

Hartson will join Manchester United winger Ryan Giggs and Blackburn midfielder Robbie Savage who last night both withdrew from Wales' squad.

Giggs, who played 82 minutes of United's 2-0 victory over Birmingham on Saturday, has a hamstring injury. Savage reported for international duty with a groin strain after playing the whole of Blackburn's 1-0 defeat to Middlesbrough at the weekend.

Giggs had been named captain for the match and was due to win his 50th cap.

Just a few hours before the winger's withdrawal Wales manager John Toshack, beginning his second stint in charge of the national side, had highlighted the player's under-achievement for his country in an international career which has been littered with cry-offs, especially in friendlies.

He also refuted the suggestion he had given the captaincy to the 31-year-old just to ensure he plays on for Wales. Toshack said: "I think they are cuter than that in Manchester, they wouldn't fall for that one. I have spoken to Sir Alex (Ferguson) about Ryan and he knows we want the lad for Euro 2008.

"And we are pretty much in agreement that at this particular stage of his career, we would like to do everything to help and see that he's able to be involved for as many of the important games when they come around."

Toshack's views on Giggs' international career imply a frustration that it has fallen short of his high standards at Manchester United.

He said: "You look at the amount of games he's played for Manchester United, a top club, and he's the most successful ever Welsh footballer in terms of medals.

"His performances for his club of late have been some of his best, but he maybe has not always been as effective for Wales as he is for United, but that sometimes happens with truly great players."