Bellamy Back in Action for Magpies

By Matthew Jones
August 12 2003

Welsh striker Craig Bellamy has recovered from a groin strain and will be available to play against Partizan Belgrade in their Champions League qualifier. Hugo Viana, Clarence Acuna, Darren Ambrose, and Lomana Lualua have had to be left behind

Welsh striker Craig Bellamy has recovered from a groin strain and will be available to play against Partizan Belgrade in their Champions League qualifier.

Bellamy limped off the pitch during last week's 2-2 friendly draw against Bayern Munich and there was fears that he may mis the trip to Serbia.

Nolberto Solano and Jermaine Jenas are both fighting for the right midfield position, after Lee Bowyer faces a six-game European ban.

Hugo Viana, Clarence Acuna, Darren Ambrose, and Lomana Lualua have had to be left behind. Viana and Acuna are injured, LuaLua could not get a visa in time, and Darren Ambrose presumed he was not playing and went out without his mobile phone - meaning Sir Bobby Robson could not ask him to play.

"Apart from that, we're fully fit and raring to go," Robson joked.

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