By Matthew Jones
April 19 2004

Welsh striker Craig Bellamy has admitted he is "gutted" regarding his hamstring injury which he picked up in yesterday's 0-0 draw against Aston Villa at Villa Park, but has refused to write off his season.

Jermaine Jenas also picked up an injury (thigh) during the game, and the pair will both miss Thursday evening's UEFA Cup semi-final with Marseille at St James' Park.  Kieron Dyer also picked up a knock and could also miss the game.

On the plus side however, striker Shola Ameobi (groin) and Titus Bramble (knee) should both be fit again for the UEFA Cup tie.

Lee Bowyer and Michael Bridges are both available for Thursday's game.  Bowyer put in an excellent performance on Sunday against Villa and will hopefully feature in the UEFA Cup after finially serving his six match European ban.

Medical staff will assess Dyer's situation in the next few days, but he is doubftul.

Speaking to the Evening Chronicle, Bellamy said after the game: "I knew I was running a risk with my hamstrings after being out for so long with my knee problems but I have never pulled up like that before. I thought I had been shot by a sniper!

"I am gutted. I will have a scan and really it's just a case of waiting to see. I am a quick healer and I haven't written my season off."

Bellamy added: "Without being disrespectful to Villa, once we got sorted out after Andy O'Brien's red card, I couldn't see them scoring.

"I thought we gave a disciplined performance and really cashed in on the experience we have gained by playing in Europe."

Andy O'Brien's was sent off in the same game, and will serve a two match ban.  He will miss Wolves at home and then the trip to Southampton, both in the Premiership.