CRAIG BELLAMY insists his decision to go against Newcastle United's wishes and play for his country has been vindicated.

The injury-prone striker came through Wales' friendly with Norway unscathed on Thursday night and now he wants to earn his 25th cap against Canada tomorrow.

Newcastle refused to give Bellamy their blessing to play in either match as they wanted their quick striker to enjoy as much rest during the summer as possible.

But Bellamy, who only made 24 appearances for the Magpies last season due to injuries, played for Mark Hughes' men.

It was the 24-year-old's first start since tearing his hamstring in the draw at Aston Villa on April 18, although he did play a large part at Liverpool on the final day of the campaign after coming on as a substitute.

And, even though he hobbled off with cramp late in the Wales game, Bellamy was pleased with how his hamstring reacted.

Now the Newcastle forward is keen to make up for last time for Wales, after missing out on the European Championships play-off with Russia in November.

"I have had enough disappointments," said Bellamy, whose career has also been threatened in the past by serious knee injuries. "I had to watch the Euro qualifiers with my leg in a brace so I know the feeling.

"But I have learned that there are a lot of people worse off than me. I felt good. I could have been a little sharper but it was my first full game in seven weeks so I was realistic about what I could do.

"I ended up with cramp but as long as it wasn't my hamstring I am quite pleased.

"I should be okay for Sunday against Canada."

Bellamy also revealed he will never give less than 100 per cent when he pulls on the red shirt at international level - words that are sure to give Robson cause for concern ahead of the friendly with the Canadians.

"It is just nice to be playing and to be training.

"Football is my life so I wanted to be involved, it was ideal for me and it has lifted me," said Bellamy.

"If you play for your country it doesn't matter what time of year it is or what game it is, you go out and play like it is your last ever game."

Hugo Viana will be aiming to put the disappointment of missing out on Euro 2004 behind him tomorrow by starring in the Under-21 Championship.

The Newcastle midfielder, whose career at St. James' Park is in doubt, should be in the Portugal line-up that kicks-off their glory bid against Switzerland's young guns tomorrow night.