Ex-Toon Striker Set To 'Take On The World'!

Last updated : 04 September 2007 By Footy Mad - Editor

The striker has scored three times in two games and looks to have settled in quickly at Upton Park, despite that spat with Alan Curbishley after one poor Hammers performance.

Toshack wants to see Bellamy give the Germans something to think about in their Euro 2008 qualifier in Cardiff on Saturday.

Wales will be massive underdogs against the unbeaten Group D leaders at the Millennium Stadium, before they head off to face Slovakia in Bratislava the following Wednesday. And Toshack knows he needs big performances from his experienced Premier League players.

Toshack: "I am delighted to see how well Craig has done at West Ham. After the start he has had he will probably be ready to take on the world now.

"I have also noted West Ham manager Alan Curbishley's comments about Craig and the way he has hit form already this season.

"That is good to hear and I just hope he can continue in that vein for us in the next two internationals."

Curbishley admits he initially underestimated the talents of Craig Bellamy - a player he now believes can become an Upton Park legend.

The £7.5million summer recruit from Liverpool had needed plenty of persuading to come to a club that had almost been relegated last term, but insisted the forward had already exceeded expectations.

Curbishley: "Liverpool moved on this summer and made big changes and as soon as I knew he was available we had to work hard to get him in - and we did have to work hard.

"I had to sell the club to him and promise I was getting other players in. And the one other thing I said to him was that the West Ham fans would love him for his endeavour, his passion and his finishing.

"I told him his career could lift off at West Ham and we are delighted he decided to come.

"He drives you mad at times when he keeps dropping off because he is so dangerous on the last man but he is a better player than I first thought when he came here.

"I haven't had a minute's problem with him and we are all delighted with him. He is a talented, talented player."