Thomas was expected to have an operation today to put a plate and screws in his thumb and is likely to be sidelined for at least six weeks. 

Owen took over the captaincy at half-time at the Stade de France as Mike Ruddock's side produced a superb second half showing.

``The selectors will sit down and talk about it but I would have thought Michael Owen would be our captain,'' said Ruddock today. ``He did a superb job in the second half against France.'' 

``You dream about playing for Wales, but it never enters you head that you will one day captain your country,'' said Owen.  ``If it comes about it will be brilliant, but we will just have to wait and see. 
 
``It's an easy job really because there are so many experienced players in the side. But it will be a massive honour. "