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Harry Kane the most complete player I’ve seen – Craig Bellamy
International friendly: England v Wales
Venue: Wembley Date: Thursday, 9 October Kick-off: 19:45 BST
Coverage: Commentary on BBC Radio Wales and BBC Radio Cymru
Wales manager Craig Bellamy has asserted that his side will approach their friendly against England at Wembley on Thursday with serious intent.
The match against Thomas Tuchel’s England follows a disappointing friendly defeat by Canada in September. However, Wales remains in contention to qualify for next summer’s World Cup in North America.
Wales currently occupies third position in Group J and is preparing for a crucial match against Belgium in Cardiff on Monday, 13 September.
“We are here tomorrow to come and play our brand of football in difficult circumstances, in an incredible place like Wembley,” Bellamy stated.
“It is excitement. We are not here as tourists to enjoy the occasion. We are here to be the best version of ourselves.”
Injured captain Kane to miss Wales friendly
Watch England news conference: Kane out for Wales – Tuchel talking to media
England, managed by German coach Tuchel, is widely tipped to secure qualification for next summer’s World Cup.
They currently lead Group K, buoyed by their recent 5-0 victory over Serbia in Belgrade.
Bellamy expressed his anticipation at the opportunity to face the former Chelsea and Borussia Dortmund manager.
“I honestly believe if you play this England team and you defend deep you’ll die a slow death and I’m not into that,” he said.
“I’m like ‘please put me up against the wall and end it now’.”
“Thomas is a top manager. It’s been really nice looking at a lot of England’s games under him, but also I watched a lot of games at Dortmund as well.
“I went back because I’ve seen a bit of similarity to what I see with the team right now and what he’s trying to transfer with England.”
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England v Wales: The day in 1977 when Leighton James’ penalty won it at Wembley
Bellamy also offered high praise for England captain and record goalscorer Harry Kane.
However, the Bayern Munich striker will be absent from the match due to an ankle injury.
“One of my best friends [Munich boss Vincent Kompany] coaches him right now, so I know a lot about him, and I think he’s the most complete player I’ve seen at this present moment,” said Bellamy.
Wales’ last victory against England at Wembley was in 1977, secured by a Leighton James penalty in a memorable 1-0 win.
The most recent encounter between the two sides resulted in a 3-0 victory for England at the 2022 World Cup finals in Qatar.
Bellamy stated that he has not specifically focused on the opportunity to make history but acknowledges the inherent pride associated with the fixture.
“I haven’t looked at it that way [but I’m] beyond proud,” he added.
“And of course when that anthem goes and you’re like, ‘this is so good’.
“Let’s be the best versions, but most importantly enjoy it and for myself to enjoy it.
“We see England’s strengths, we see their weaknesses, and for us, it’s history we’re always aware of and always respectful of, but to us, it’s game by game.”
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