Source: Telegraph
Craig Bellamy desperate to start against former club West Ham says Mark Hughes
City can climb into the top four by defeating Gianfranco Zola's struggling outfit at Eastlands and manager Hughes is set to hand £17m Roque Santa Cruz his debut. [LNB]But Bellamy, 30, is certain starter after starring against Manchester United and Fulham during the past week. [LNB] Related ArticlesSanta Cruz set for City debutSanta Cruz prepared to sacrificeMan City v West Ham: match previewRobin Van Persie: no apology from AdebayorAdebayor will not change waysStephen Ireland gets all-clearWith long-term concerns over the Welshman's ability to play back-to-back games due to a history of knee problems, Hughes admits he is reluctant to over-work Bellamy. [LNB]But the City manager concedes that Bellamy, who left West Ham for Eastlands in a £10m move in January, is desperate to face his former club. [LNB]Hughes said: "It's been a big week for Craig and I don't like playing him three times in a week, but he's really looking forward to it. He loves to play against his former clubs. He had a great time at West Ham and has a lot of respect for Gianfranco Zola and everybody at the club. He gives us advice all the time about playing his former clubs." [LNB]Hughes has warned against complacency this evening following West Ham's poor start to the campaign. Zola's team head north determined to escape the bottom three after winning just once this season, but Hughes expects a stuff test tonight. [LNB]He said: "West Ham is a difficult game and the extra days rest will have been crucial to us. [LNB]"We are up against a good West Ham side who like to get the ball down and play good football. That's how we like to play as well, and hopefully we'll have a few more options available. [LNB]"I know Gianfranco very well, having played alongside him for three years. I count him as a friend and I think he's done a fantastic job there in difficult circumstances. [LNB]"His mindset is that he wants his team to play attacking football. I'm of the same mind. But that's a challenge for them given how strong we are at our stadium. It's a test for them." [LNB]
