Wales manager Chris Coleman says he is still unsure whether Craig Bellamy will extend his international career into their World Cup qualifying campaign, but will continue to select the Liverpool striker as long as he is available.
Coleman has named Bellamy, 32, in his 23-man squad for the friendly against Mexico in New Jersey later this month. It had been thought Bellamy's appearance as captain in February's Gary Speed Memorial Match against Costa Rica would mark his 68th and last cap.
"I've included him in my squad. I wouldn't have included him if I didn't think he wanted to continue with us [Wales]. If Craig wants to make a statement about what he intends to do maybe that will quash all the rumours," Coleman told a press conference.
"But he is very, very much a part of us going forward about this next campaign and we will have a better chance of doing something special with Craig rather than without him. Until he tells me otherwise I'm going to continue to pick him."
While Bellamy is included, there is no place for Aston Villa defender James Collins.
Collins fell out of favour towards the end of Speed's time in charge, with Cardiff's Darcy Blake becoming the preferred defensive partner for Swansea's Ashley Williams. Danny Gabbidon and Rob Earnshaw also missed out on a place in the panel but Coleman insists the trio still have an international future.
Coleman added: "They haven't done anything wrong there. James has had a long hard season, he has had a few niggles. I know all about James. I'm not going to learn anything from James. I'm not going to learn anything from Danny or Robert in this game.
"I may learn other things from players I don't know so well. I spoke to Robbie and Danny and they are fine. It's not me burning bridges with these experienced players. On the contrary - they are very much part of our make-up and squad going forward."
Wolves goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey was unavailable due to his torn cruciate ligament, and the absence of Boaz Myhill means Chelsea's Rhys Taylor is handed his first call-up. West Ham midfielder Jack Collison has also been left out as Coleman wants to give the player a rest following a demanding season.
After meeting Mexico, Wales play host to Bosnia-Herzegovina in August before beginning their World Cup campaign against Belgium in September.
Source: PA
