Wales boss John Toshack paid tribute to his outgoing skipper and backed the rest of his squad to fill the void left by the winger.
He told Sky Sports 2: 'Even today he did some things that were trademark really. From a selfish point of view I would still like to have him around at the centre.
'He's been great for me as captain. There's no-one over 27 years of age here in the squad which is strange for an international side.
'We have young ones pushing through and the likes of (Craig) Bellamy, (Simon) Davies, (Jason) Koumas and (Danny) Gabbidon have to push forward and can't hide under Ryan's umbrella anymore and I'm sure they will.'
And while Toshack was delighted with his side's performance he admitted the draw had all but ended any hopes of qualification.
'We couldn't have done much more - they are a very very good side,' he added. 'Against a top side we have given two performances.
'We have not been inferior, we passed well, controlled things and concentrated well against top players and could have nicked it.
'I don't think we had less chances than them. All in all it was pleasing.
'I think it would be a brave man to bet against the Germans and the Czech Republic (to qualify).
We came out of pot five, that means there are four supposedly better teams than us.
'We are asking young lads to do what no Wales side has done for 50 years. This one now looks very difficult.'
