Craig Bellamy says he remains committed to Wales, insisting it was his decision to turn down a summer approach from Burnley. Bellamy held talks with the Championship club over replacing Scott Parker following the Clarets' relegation from the Premier League. The Football Association of Wales granted permission for Bellamy to speak to Burnley in June after they triggered a compensation clause.
The 47-year-old admitted the approach was "flattering" as he considered quitting his national post two years into a four year deal. But he said he was "comfortable" turning down the chance to return to club football and reiterated his desire to lead Wales at a home European Championships in 2028. "I had a decision to make and I made it," Bellamy said.
I said no, it's not for me. There was no walk away from discussions. "I made the decision to stay because this is the right place for me.
"We had a conversation but I was already in a role and this (Wales) was what I wanted. "It was flattering – we all like our ego being exercised and being wanted – but for me, my partner, my kids, this is the place and we didn't see anything else being able to move that." Rodon absent as Ashford earns first Wales call-up Bellamy link puts Wales in hard position - Blake Four hours inside Bellamy's office - and the Wales boss' complex mind Speaking as he named his 28-man squad for Nations League A games with Portugal, Denmark and Norway, it was the first time Bellamy has faced questions over the summer speculation over his future. Having spent a successful period at Turf Moor as Vincent Kompany's assistant, Bellamy suggested his respect for his former club prompted him to hold conversations over the vacancy.
Still, the uncertainty prompted a number of former players to suggest he would have to win over fans. Some supporters also voiced disappointment at the events that came just weeks after he had insisted he "was not going anywhere". "I know how it could be seen, but I've only one person I have anything to prove to, and that's me," said Bellamy, who missed out on the chance on leading Wales to the 2026 World Cup after a penalty shoot-out defeat by Bosnia-Herzegovina in March's play-offs.
"I'm comfortable with the decision I've made. I've always been committed in everything I do and that hasn't changed. "Now, winning people over?
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