Wales manager Robert Page was “proud” of the way his players responded to criticism after they beat Latvia to claim just their second win in 14 games.
Page was under intense pressure ahead of Monday’s 2-0 Euro 2024 qualifier win in Riga.
Wales remain fourth in Group D but still have a chance, albeit slim, of automatic qualification.
“The pressure was from outside, understandably, but we never questioned it within the group,” Page said.
Wales faced heavy criticism after defeats to Armenia and Turkey in June damaged their chances of qualification.
“We knew we had to give a positive reaction after the disappointment of June and we have – and then some,” Page said.
“I’m very proud of the players. I think the camp is amazing. I have a group of players there who enjoy playing football for me.
“It feels good, it feels strong, absolutely – that’s a big compliment to myself from the players. I just told them: even the young people who didn’t play, they all have a part. Nothing bad eggs in that changing room.
“There is no pressure, it is created from outside influence.”
Page’s future has been the subject of intense scrutiny and, however victory over Latvia has eased some of that pressure, his position will still be assessed according to senior figures at the Football Association of Wales.
The former Northampton Town and Port Vale boss was a national hero last year when he became the first man to lead Wales to a World Cup since 1958.
However, after beating Ukraine in their World Cup play-off final in June 2022, Wales managed just one win in their next 13 games, a 1-0 home win over Latvia in March.
That run of poor form prompted strong criticism from pundits and fans, many of whom called for Page to be fired.
“I don’t get bothered by all that. That’s noise I don’t need. I know I’m doing good, when I look in the mirror,” Page said.
“There’s a group of guys who are happy to work for me.
“I understand that we have to win football games, of course we have. There is no point in playing good football and coming out of the camp without points.
“We have to be fierce, but there is a group of winners in that changing room playing for me. I have a great staff and we can’t wait for the next camp.”
Wales return to action with a friendly against Gibraltar in Wrexham on 11 October before continuing their Euro 2024 qualification campaign four days later when they host Croatia at Cardiff City Stadium.
Page’s side remain fourth in Group D, but they are level on points with Armenia in third and three behind leaders Croatia and second-placed Turkey.
“We put ourselves back there,” Page said.
“Three points to second place – it’s in our hands. Other teams will play their part, but we have to win our game tonight.”
