Bellars belief

Craig Bellamy has been declared fit for Wales' forthcoming European Championship qualifiers against Cyprus and San Marino.

The Welsh striker - who has missed the last four United fixtures - underwent surgery to cure a niggling groin injury last week.

And so pleased has Bellamy been with his progress since that he has declared himself fit to appear for his country this weekend.

FAW Spokesman Ceri Stennett said this morning:

"Craig has not played for West Ham in five weeks and they are clearly happy for him to have some match practice under his belt.

"He had a groin operation last week and we were aware that he was training with his club.

"Obviously our medical team will keep a very close eye on him, nobody wants him breaking down.

"The intention was to wait to see how he went and then, if he was okay, fly him out to Bologna on Monday to join up with the party heading for San Marino.

"But Craig has always said to us that he wanted to travel for both matches, and West Ham are happy for him to do so."

James Collins - who missed training yesterday after a visit to the dentist - is also expected to feature in both games, as is his defensive partner Danny Gabbidon.

Full Wales squad

Coyne (Tranmere), Price (Derby); Bale (Tottenham), J. Collins (West Ham), Eardley (Oldham), S. Evans (Wrexham), Gabbidon (West Ham), Morgan (Peterborough), Nyatanga (Barnsley), Ricketts (Hull), Crofts (Gillingham), S. Davies (Fulham), Ledley (Cardiff), Robinson (Toronto), Vaughan (Real Sociedad), Bellamy (West Ham), Earnshaw (Derby), Easter (Wycombe), Eastwood (Wolves).