NEWCASTLE United yesterday launched a top-level probe into allegations that striker Craig Bellamy has been the target of death threats.

St. James' Park officials were due to hold talks with Bellamy on his return from duty with Wales in Finland.

Reports at the weekend suggested the 23-year-old, signed from Coventry City for £6m in July last year, had received hate-mail.

Bellamy was quick to dismiss the claims as "nonsense'' and neither Newcastle nor Northumbria Police could substantiate the rumours.

But Russell Cushing, United's chief operating officer, said in a statement: "To the best of my knowledge, Craig Bellamy has not notified the club of any difficulties of the nature suggested by some newspapers.

"We will obviously need to speak to Craig on his return from Helsinki before making any further comment."

Bellamy, who made his comeback from knee surgery as a substitute in United's 2-2 draw at Liverpool eight days ago, played the last 20 minutes of Wales' 2-0 victory over Finland on Saturday in their opening European Championship Group Nine qualifier.

He reported for training with Newcastle yesterday and is expected to be in contention for a starting role in tomorrow's attractive home game against Leeds United.

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