Helen Ward revealed yesterday that the Welsh women’s national team have to wear men’s sized shirts when playing.

Ward, who plays for Reading, said that at club level they are given women’s shirts but was “disappointed” by the fact that at international level her and her teammates are forced to wear kits in men’s sizes.

“We’ll wear what we’re given but it is nice to be wearing a kit that fits and cut the right way,” Ward said.

“It’s really disappointing because a lot of shirts come in women’s sizes.”

With Wales’s men’s side qualifying for Euro 2016, complaints have been made that replica shirts are unavailable in women’s sizes.

England’s women’s side, who finished third at the 2015 World Cup, play in women’s fitted shirts and Ward believes Wales deserve the same.

“Having played in those kits it’s much nicer. The men’s kit is designed to fit them and it’s not hanging off them.

“Most of us wear small men’s shirts and sometimes if we’re lucky we have extra large boys’, which are a bit smaller.

“It is what it is and we play regardless and we are proud to play whatever size shirt we are given.”

More and more kit suppliers are making women’s shirts and while some have been criticised for the v-neck collar, Ward still feels like an opportunity has been lost with Wales playing in a major tournament for the first time in 58 years.

“A lot of football shirts come in women’s sizes now and not to have one for such a big occasion as the Euros is really disappointing,” Ward said.

“It’s not just men and children who want to wear the kit, it’s the women as well.

“Everyone wants to go out wearing their colours but they want to go looking and feeling good.”

Kit suppliers Adidas said: “The shirts on sale are retailed as adult shirts, intended for both male and female fans.

“There is not a women’s fit specific garment available however the kits are of a tailored fit and a full size range is available to suit all fan requirements.”