World · 1 hr. ago

Craig Bellamy: Questions over Wales form are not unfair

Wales head coach Craig Bellamy accepts that criticism is justified as his team prepares for a Nations League clash with Norway following a winless run.

Craig Bellamy: Questions over Wales form are not unfair

Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0 / Author: Jon Candy

Wales head coach Craig Bellamy insists he is comfortable with the scrutiny surrounding his team's recent form as they prepare for Thursday's Nations League match against Norway in Cardiff. Wales currently sit bottom of League A Group 4 following defeats to Portugal and Denmark, extending their winless streak to six matches.

Addressing the pressure, Bellamy maintained that criticism is a natural part of football when results are not going as planned. He emphasized that he does not want his players or staff to seek understanding or leniency, but rather to use the pressure to improve.

You don't win and you lose a few games in a row, you should be asked questions. I don't want anyone to understand. We should always demand and... I'm no different. Craig Bellamy

The squad continues to face significant injury issues. Midfielder David Brooks remains sidelined after missing the loss in Denmark, adding to an availability crisis that includes goalkeeper Karl Darlow, defenders Joe Rodon and Dylan Lawlor, and forward Harry Wilson. Bellamy noted that he is drawing on his time as an assistant at Burnley to navigate this difficult period.

Looking ahead to the challenge of facing Norway, Bellamy offered high praise for Erling Haaland, comparing the striker's unique combination of size and mobility to rugby legend Jonah Lomu. He dismissed concerns that ongoing financial investigations surrounding Manchester City would distract the forward, calling him a "machine" who remains focused on scoring.

Prepared by TheGoalStorm based on reporting by bbc.sport