Bellamy return on schedule

By Matthew Jones
August 15 2002

Newcastle striker Craig Bellamy has revealed that he is making good progress from his knee injury and his return is on schedule.

Newcastle striker Craig Bellamy has revealed that he is making good progress from his knee injury and his return is on schedule.

Bellamy's knee injury has taken longer than expected to mend but the player has told Wales boss Mark Hughes that he should be back in action for the clash against Italy on 16 October.

The striker is set to miss the start of the new Premiership season and Wales' European Championship qualifier against Finland next month.

However, Hughes has revealed that after speaking to the player he is confident he will be ready for the Italian job.

"I have spoken to Craig and he's happy with his progress," Hughes revealed. "He says he is about 75% and is on schedule.

"We hope he is going to be available for Finland, but it may be touch and go with that game, unfortunately. But certainly we would hope to have him back for the Italy game."