Bellamy blow for Wales

West Ham forward withdraws from squad

Last updated: 1st September 2008

Craig Bellamy West Ham United Hampton and Richmond Pre Season Friendly

Bellamy: Out of Wales squad

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Wales striker Craig Bellamy has been withdrawn from his country's squad for the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers against Azerbaijan and Russia.

A decision has been made to allow the West Ham forward to continue his rehabilitation from the hamstring injury he sustained in pre-season.

Wales begin their campaign to reach South Africa in two years' time at home to Azerbaijan on Saturday before a daunting trip to Russia on 10th September.

However, they are not prepared to risk injury-prone forward Bellamy, who scored for West Ham in their 4-1 victory over Blackburn at the weekend.

A statement on the Football Association of Wales' official website read: "After discussions between managers John Toshack and Alan Curbishley (West Ham United) and the player Craig Bellamy, it has been mutually agreed that in the interests of all parties the player will continue his rehabilitation plan at his club.

"This means he will not be available for the World Cup double-header with Azerbaijan in Cardiff and Russia in Moscow."