Bellamy gets Wales call-up

Last updated : 04 August 2004 By Nicky Bremner
The news will not be pleasant hearing for Sir Bobby Robson, who has not exactly shared a fruitful relationship with the former Manchester United star. Bellamy's injuries have scarred his time on Tyneside and Robson will be hoping to keep him fit in what may well prove to be his final year.

Chairman Freddie Shepherd has publicly announced that the 71 year-old will not be given a new contract at the end of the season.

"Whatever happens in the next few months, I will give it everything I've got to make Newcastle United successful, just as I have since I came here in 1999," he said.

"Obviously I'm disappointed at the club's decision not to keep me on, but even so, I will work as diligently as I always have.

"For what it's worth, I don't agree with the club's decision not to renew my contract, but football is all about opinion and I know you have to respect other people's opinion.

"But I will not falter in the next few months and every decision I will make and everything I will do will be in the best interests of the chairman and Newcastle United Football Club.

"And if I have to leave, I can promise you the club will be in great shape when I do go."

In other news Michael Chopra is the subject of interest from Division 2 (or whatever it's called now) side Barnsley. Only time will tell whether Chopra wants to move to the Tykes, as it would be a double division drop. The England under 21 international has previously been on loan to Nottingham Forest and Watford.