Sir Bobby impressed by Craig’s comeback

Last updated : 03 December 2002 By Martyn Elliott

Sir Bobby was pleased with the striker’s all round performance and attitude on Sunday.

"Craig has been hauled over the coals after Wednesday night. He's been punished and he's accepted it.

"Both Craig and Alan Shearer have had a lot of media attention for the past three days, but they have come through it. Certainly there was no question in my mind of leaving either of them out against Everton.

"They inflicted a crime on themselves and they have been punished for that and now it's a case of matter resolved and get on with the game.

"I said to Craig on Saturday `Have you the courage to go out and play tomorrow?'

"He said yes so I told him `I have the courage to pick you. We are all in this together. I'm for you and you for me so you get out there and show the public.'

"And that's what Craig did. He played with his mouth shut and he wasn't in any trouble with the referee. He has learned a little bit of humility and we like that.

"It has been a difficult week for the club but we are in this together. We win, lose and draw together. We get sent off together and we are booked together.

"That's how it is here. We try and create a strong family unit."

With the news that Bellamy is set to sign his new contract in the next couple of weeks, it looks like his future at St James’ is secure.