Wales manager Mark Hughes says the decision not to throw Russia out of EURO 2004 has devalued the tournament.
“It’s disappointing and frustrating because cheats have prospered,” said Hughes after the Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled against Wales.
“We had a good case, but the verdict devalues the European Championship,” the Welsh coach told the BBC.
Wales wanted Russia thrown out of the finals after one of their players Egor Titov failed a drugs test following the first-leg play-off last year. The CAS in Lausanne backed UEFA in ruling that Wales had failed to prove that Russia were involved in Titov’s drug-taking.
“It has been a long fight (against Russia), but at this point we have to draw a line under it,” said Hughes.
“We have two friendlies at the end of the month which we will use to prepare for the World Cup qualifiers.
“I will then go to Portugal to watch our qualifying opponents England. It’s time to concentrate on the football.”
“I think the arguments we presented will make a difference,” said Hughes.
“Uefa will probably change their regulations or procedures and we should be congratulated for that.”
