AFTER a magical weekend in Bordeaux, Wales are back in the peaceful surroundings of Dinard as they prepare for the mayhem of Thursday’s Battle of Britain against England.

The build-up to Saturday’s win over Slovakia, the frenetic 90 minutes and the joyous scenes at the final whistle were unforgettable for everyone who was in the stands at the impressive Stade de Bordeaux.

And the players were also affected by the emotions of the momentous occasion.

Midfielder Jonny Williams, who started ahead of Sam Vokes and eventual match-winner Hal Robson-Kanu, revealed that they were inspired by personal messages from home before kick-off.

“One of the special things we had, in the pre-match meeting, was messages from family and friends,” said the Crystal Palace man.

“It really hit home, it was quite emotional. That does help. The boys who have kids and families, seeing how proud your mum and dad are of you. It was a good idea.

“It was lots of different videos in the hotel before we left for the stadium. My dad popped up, it was a bit of a laugh – not too embarrassing.”

And after the match the players celebrated with an impromptu singalong.

“We were singing each other’s songs on the way home,” said Williams.

“We seemed to enjoy the Joe Allen song. All the chants. We watched the programme with the Wales chants on the TV a few nights ago and were enjoying ourselves on the plane back, all buzzing.”

Williams also admitted that he would welcome a chance to make an appearance on reality TV show Made in Chelsea to meet his celebrity lookalike Jamie Laing.

“I used to get called Laingy at Ipswich,” added the 22-year-old. “It has been going on for a while. I actually quite like the show to be fair, not just because he’s in it. I find it funny.

“His best mate posted something earlier, saying congratulations to him on his Wales debut! I enjoy it, its good banter. I would like to meet him, he seems a laugh.”

Chris Coleman was back on media duty yesterday as the build-up to the England match began in earnest.

But the Wales boss has reportedly refused to be interviewed by Jason Mohamed – the BBC’s man in the Welsh camp.

Coleman was apparently upset by a previous comment from the Match of the Day reporter.

Don’t worry Jason – we’ve all been there with one manager or another!

South Wales Argus: