Bellamy straining at the leash


By Matthew Jones
September 9 2002

United striker Craig Bellamy insists he is raring to go at home to Leeds on Wednesday after his 20-minute run-out for Wales on Saturday. United striker Craig Bellamy insists he is raring to go at home to Leeds on Wednesday after his 20-minute run-out for Wales on Saturday.

The Newcastle hitman played the last 20 minutes of Wales' superb 2-0 win in Finland at the weekend - after a row between club and country over his fitness.

United boss Sir Bobby Robson had asked his Wales counterpart Mark Hughes to restrict Bellamy's involvement.

But, having come through his appearance unscathed, the 23-year-old is now straining at the leash to player a bigger role for the black and whites.

"Newcastle have Leeds on Wednesday and Kiev soon in the Champions League - I would much prefer to be playing," he said.

"I feel fine, there's no problem with the injury. I know I've only had bits of two games but that's the way it is - I can handle it.

"I know there's not much chance of rest now but I so much want to be involved again."

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