Bellamy Backtracks On Wednesday's Comments

By Matthew Jones
August 27 2004

Despite hinting that he would have to consider his future at St James' Park if Wayne Rooney was to arrive on the scene, Welsh striker Craig Bellamy has again spoken out - but this time pledges his future to the club.

Speaking to Alan Oliver of the Evening Chronicle, Bellamy said today:

"Every Newcastle United supporter knows just how committed I am to the club.

"I absolutely love playing here and there is no way I am going to ask for a transfer, whether Wayne Rooney comes or not.

"Yes, I suppose I spoke a bit out of turn on Wednesday night, but people should put themselves in my position.

"Norwich were my first club and I still have a lot of affection for them. But every player wants to beat their old club and I'm no different.

"Obviously I thought we were going to do it and you can imagine how I felt when we threw away a two-goal lead.

"To say I was frustrated is an understatement. Then suddenly you have a microphone and a television camera thrust in front of you.

"That's what happened to me on Wednesday night - I am not the first person, and I won't be the last, to say something in the heat of the moment in circumstances like these."

He added:

"I have always been a fighter throughout my career. I had relegation with Coventry City and a bad knee injury with Norwich.

"And if Wayne Rooney does come I will fight for my place because I don't want to sit on the bench."