Wales boss Bellamy to keep 'best job in the world'

Craig Bellamy has underlined his commitment to staying on as Wales head coach, describing it as the best job in the world.

Wales missed out on World Cup qualification in agonising fashion last Thursday, losing their play-off semi-final to Bosnia-Herzegovina on penalties.

Bellamy, who was appointed in July 2024, is contracted until 2028 but has been linked with clubs including Celtic.

However, the 46-year-old has distanced himself from such speculation and wants to lead Wales at Euro 2028, which they will co-host with England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.

"The heartbreak is actually more than I anticipated, but the energy to refocus and go again is definitely still there," said Bellamy.

"I really enjoy this. We'll talk more after it [Tuesday's friendly against Northern Ireland] probably because my mind is just so focused on the present moment. But it's the best role in the world.

"Nothing will ever compare to this so why would I want to wish it away? I've really enjoyed doing this and I still do."

Following Thursday's defeat, Wales will not contest Tuesday's play-off final against Italy but will instead host Northern Ireland – who lost to the Azzurri in the other semi-final – in a friendly at Cardiff City Stadium.

Wales will be without midfielders Jordan James and Rubin Colwill, who have returned to Leicester City and Cardiff City respectively to have injuries assessed.

Leeds United winger Daniel James is also a fitness doubt, while Northern Ireland have been hit by the withdrawals of Ali McCann, Ruairi McConville, Paddy McNair and Bailey Peacock-Farrell.

Given the teams' respective defeats on Thursday, their friendly encounter has been met with apathy on both sides.

Bellamy, however, wants his team to put their World Cup heartache to one side on Tuesday and give a good account of themselves against opponents 35 places below them in the world rankings.

"It has really hurt. I have to be honest, it's hurt more than I anticipated," the former Wales captain added.

"When you see them [Wales players] hurting so much, that hurts more. Seeing their disappointment really shook me.

"If it's going to hurt for a couple of days, then let it hurt, and then we move forward.

"Learn from the past and then, moving forward, look at motivation. We've got a lot to look forward to, and we've got to start looking forward now because the simple fact is we have a game tomorrow night."