Craig Bellamy named new Wales manager live updates

Wales have named Craig Bellamy as their new manager.

Bellamy, who came close to landing the job in 2018 before missing out to Ryan Giggs, was confirmed as Rob Page's successor on Tuesday morning, and has signed a four-year deal with the Football Association of Wales.

The 44-year-old, who made 78 appearances for Wales as a player, was previously assistant to Vincent Kompany at Anderlecht and then Burnley. He even took interim charge of the Clarets after the Belgian made the move to Bayern Munich earlier in the summer.

New Clarets boss Scott Parker was keen on keeping Bellamy as part of his backroom staff, but he has now moved on to take the biggest job in Welsh football.

On his appointment, Bellamy said: “It’s an incredible honour for me to be given the opportunity to lead my country and it’s the proudest moment of my career. It was always my ultimate dream to become the Cymru Head Coach and I am ready for the challenge.

“I will give my full commitment to develop this team and I am passionate to bring continued success into Welsh football. I can’t wait to get started with our Nations League games in September.”

The FAW’s Chief Football Officer, Dr. David Adams, added: “I am absolutely delighted to announce Craig as our new Head Coach. We undertook a thorough recruitment process for the new Men’s National Team Head Coach and Craig was identified as the standout candidate.

“We are all looking forward to the Nations League games and working with Craig to deliver success for Welsh Football.”

Bellamy’s first match in charge will be the UEFA Nations League opener with Turkey on Friday, September 6 at the Cardiff City Stadium.

You can follow updates with our live blog below