Joe Ledley believes that Aaron Ramsey and Gareth Bale have helped bridge the gap between Wales and the biggest nations in international football.
This year Wales qualified for their first major tournament in over 50 years and they went on to shock Europe by reaching the semi-finals of Euro 2016.
And midfielder Ledley says that the duo have played a major role in the collective strength of a side that "created something special in the nation".
"It always helps a small nation like ourselves to have individual quality like Gareth and Aaron bring," Ledley told Goal.
"They are two brilliant players who can win the game by themselves. I think every team needs a few special players otherwise you're going to be struggling to get into competitions and those two have lifted the spirit and belief as well."
Wales are hopeful that Bale will return from an ankle injury in time for their next World Cup qualifier, against Republic of Ireland in March.
Bale and Ramsey are far from merely talented individuals, however, and their tireless work for the team has been key to a resurgent Wales that are now aiming to follow up their success with a trip to Russia for World Cup 2018.
"We're all together and that's what we do: We work hard as a team and, if you ask Aaron or Gareth, then [they’ll tell you] without us behind them it's not going to work," added Ledley.
"No game is going to be easy at international level so we need to roll out sleeves up and keep digging in, keep working hard – that's what got us in the Euros."
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