CRAIG Bellamy has admitted that the fear of being dropped is driving him on at Newcastle United, and helping him adapt to his new role in attack.

With the January transfer window less than two months away, the speedy frontman is well aware that the pressure is on every player to prove their worth to the new manager - despite the likelihood that Graeme Souness will only strengthen his defence in January.

The Wales international not for the first time found himself the odd one out this week, as Souness opted to play Alan Shearer and Patrick Kluivert in attack against Tbilisi.

But Bellamy remains so important a player to the Magpies' manager that he has found space in midfield for the 25-year-old forward.

"I don't suppose there's too much to choose between the three of us but it's what's best for Newcastle which matters," said Bellamy, whose goal on Thursday in the 2-0 UEFA Cup win was his fifth of the season.

"We're at the start of a busy run of games, but I don't think anyone wants a rest, to be honest," he said.

"We're all wanting to play in every game because we're still proving ourselves to the manager.

"We know there will be money available to spend in January when the transfer window opens, so nobody wants to miss out on any games in case they can't get back into the side."

The £6m signing from Coventry reaffirmed his desire to stay on Tyneside following a bust-up with Souness after being substituted against Charlton at the Valley last month.

The pair clashed after the Newcastle manager attempted to speak to his fiery frontman about the verbal volley he directed at the Scot, but according to both sides the matter is now closed.

Whilst saying he is happy to play anywhere for the club, he has made sure his manager knows exactly where his preferred position is.

He said: "I prefer playing up front, I don't think that's any secret, but I'll play anywhere to get in the side. I know there's more running in the midfield role - I can tell you that for a fact.

"Patrick didn't score against Dinamo but he was outstanding and won the man-of-the-match award. Me and Alan bagged a goal each so it's a tough one for the gaffer."

Bellamy is likely to again find himself in a wide role on Sunday when Fulham visit - which will see the Wales striker meet up with former international team-mate Chris Coleman.

Bellamy said: "Chris Coleman is a big factor at Fulham and, while they might have lost their way a little bit at the start of the season, he has turned things around.

"His players will be under no illusions as to what is expected from them. I know what he's all about. I played with him and he's a great man.

"He looked after me in the early days and, as long as they don't do too well on Sunday, I'd love to see him have some success."

Tomorrow will also see Souness meeting up with an old acquaintance in the shape of Andy Cole.

Souness and Cole had a much-publicised bust-up at Blackburn when Cole complained to the players union, the PFA, that he has been singled out for unfair treatment by Souness.

After Cole - who spent nearly two years at Newcastle - was shipped out to Fulham on a free transfer in the summer Souness branded the striker as a baby and added that in in the future he only wanted to sign men.

Cole's new boss Chris Coleman was at St James' Park on Thursday, and Souness believed he will have learned little from the game.

"Perhaps Chris will feel there are weaknesses he can expose, but I hope we will be a different team again on Sunday," said the Scot.

"No two games are the same, but I think any game in the Premiership will be harder than the one against Tbilisi.

"We were disappointed losing at Bolton and we have to be ready for the challenge of Fulham - which will be a stern one.

"They had a good result last time out beating Spurs, they'll come here with confidence."

* Stephen Carr is expected to be fit for tomorrow's game after being rested by Souness after the full-back took a bang on the knee in the defeat at the Reebok last weekend.