Toshack urges Wales belief

National boss issues rallying call

By Ben Collins   Last updated: 10th October 2008

Wales John Toshack

Toshack: Eyes World Cup spot

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Manager John Toshack has urged the Wales camp to keep the faith in their bid to reach the 2010 World Cup finals in South Africa.

Toshack's team host Liechtenstein in Cardiff on Saturday knowing victory is crucial if they are to qualify from Group Four.

Having suffered a narrow defeat in Russia, Wales must beat lesser nations such as Liechtenstein and hope to get something from Wednesday's match against Germany in Moenchengladbach.

"Of course it is going to be hard to qualify from this group with such powerful nations as Germany and Russia to overcome," he said.

"That is why we must beat Liechtenstein, but also for everybody to keep believing we can do it.

Proud

"We don't under-estimate anyone and Liechtenstein will be a proud side, strong and physical."

Craig Bellamy is fit enough to play his first competitive international in almost a year, allowing Toshack to play the West Ham star with Wigan's Jason Koumas in behind in an eagerly-anticipated strike partnership.

Wolves goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey has overcome his stomach bug and Toshack could also give a start to West Ham defender James Collins, who has been out for six months with a cruciate knee ligament injury.

"We have Bellamy back for the first time in a year. He has missed so much so we are just happy he is available again," said the Wales boss.

"He has been out for so long, it will feel like Christmas Day for him when he steps out at the Millennium Stadium for this one.

"He is just delighted to have his fitness back. He has worked so hard to make his body stronger. I am looking forward to seeing him back leading our attack.

"Hopefully he can inspire us to the victory we need. We have players in attack I feel can be the difference between the sides."