Craig Bellamy commits to Wales role after World Cup play-off defeat
Craig Bellamy has confirmed he will remain as Wales head coach following their World Cup play-off defeat, dismissing speculation over his future to focus on the Euro 2028 campaign.
The national team suffered a painful exit last Thursday after losing their semi-final tie against Bosnia-Herzegovina on penalties.
Despite being appointed only in July 2024, the 46-year-old had recently been linked with a managerial move to Celtic.
However, the former international striker has emphatically distanced himself from a domestic return, describing his current international position as the best job in the world.
Euro 2028 ambitions remain the priority
The manager’s current contract runs until 2028, coinciding with the European Championship that his nation will co-host alongside England, Scotland, and the Republic of Ireland.
“The heartbreak is actually more than I anticipated, but the energy to refocus and go again is definitely still there.”
“Nothing will ever compare to this so why would I want to wish it away? I’ve really enjoyed doing this and I still do.”
Injury setbacks ahead of Northern Ireland friendly
Instead of contesting Tuesday’s play-off final against Italy, the Dragons will host Northern Ireland in a friendly at the Cardiff City Stadium.
The squad will be without midfielders Jordan James and Rubin Colwill, who have both returned to Leicester City and Cardiff City respectively to undergo injury assessments.
Leeds United winger Daniel James is also considered a fitness doubt for the upcoming fixture.
Their opponents are facing their own selection crisis, with Ali McCann, Ruairi McConville, Paddy McNair, and Bailey Peacock-Farrell all withdrawing from the travelling party.
Moving past the play-off disappointment
The upcoming friendly has generated widespread apathy following both nations’ respective semi-final defeats last week.
Nevertheless, the former Premier League forward expects his players to set aside their disappointment and perform against a side ranked 35 places below them globally.
“If it’s going to hurt for a couple of days, then let it hurt, and then we move forward.”
“Learn from the past and then, moving forward, look at motivation. We’ve got a lot to look forward to, and we’ve got to start looking forward now because the simple fact is we have a game tomorrow night.”
