By Matthew Jones
October 26 2003

Newcastle striker Craig Bellamy has refused to put a deadline on when he expects to return to action after a sixth knee operation. Newcastle striker Craig Bellamy has refused to put a deadline on when he expects to return to action after a sixth knee operation.

Writing in the Sunday People, he said: "I was doing my best to fight it. I needed a knee operation. It has probably been obvious to anyone who has watched me regularly.

"So this week I headed off to doctor Richard Steadman's clinic here in Colorado, where he has treated Alan Shearer, Ronaldo, Jamie Redknapp and others.

"My feeling today is one of utter relief. I can look forward now with great hope and optimism after a period of huge mental strain. I have been going up against some of the best defenders in the game more worried about my fitness than about how to cause them problems.

"Then it just reached the point where I thought: 'Enough! I've suffered enough. Let's just go and get it done.'

"The last few months have been murder, but I am much more positive, much happier having had it done.

"Will we see a pain-free, brand new Craig Bellamy? I certainly hope so.

"I am told four months, but have enough experience of injuries to realise you do not put timings on your comeback.

"It might be before then, it might take longer. I can't afford to set deadlines."

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