WELSH hotshot Craig Bellamy is on collision course with Newcastle United as the club versus country row hit new depths today.

Newcastle are apparently in discussions with their solicitors about the possibility of a legal move in an effort to stop Bellamy, who missed United's last three games with a knee injury, lining-up for his beloved Wales in their vital Euro 2004 qualifier with Italy in Milan on Saturday.

The Magpies have not officially confirmed this drastic course of action but St James' Park sources say Newcastle chairman Freddie Shepherd wants to see if a legal case can be mounted against Wales playing their star man in the San Siro.

David Collins, the Football Association of Wales' secretary-general, was staying tight-lipped last night, flatly saying: "No comment."

Wales, if their case needed strengthening, can point to the fact that on Monday an independent specialist found nothing wrong with Bellamy's troubled right-knee.

Welsh boss Mark Hughes, however, remains steadfast on the issue insisting that if striker Bellamy, 24, is fit then he should play against the Azzurri.

And in a short, yet to the point, statement from the FA of Wales, Bellamy was quoted as saying that he "felt better than he had done for many months."

Hughes' new defiance came in the light of a hard-hitting statement from Newcastle yesterday.

Russell Cushing, United's Chief Operating Officer, blasted: "Wales must expect that we will fight tooth and nail on this.

"We must protect the interests of both the club and the player to the fullest extent. Mark Hughes' alleged statement that he is prepared to risk striker Craig Bellamy in the Euro 2004 qualifier in Italy against the wishes of Newcastle boss Sir Bobby Robson' is disgraceful and is a clear verbal indicator to his total lack of respect or concern for the future well being of the player, and the future relationship of the club and his employers."

Hughes would not comment further on the issue today but a FAW statement read: "Mindful of our duty of care, we decided that Craig would not train on Tuesday as the detailed written report from an independent specialist on his knee condition was not received until later that day.

"Once the positive details were received he was free to train yesterday. Craig completed a full training session and is expected to be available for selection."

Hughes, though, has vowed previously that Bellamy (pictured), Wales' match-winner in the reverse game against Italy at the Millennium Stadium last October, would not play if there was any doubt over his fitness.

"My main concern is for Craig and I would not risk him in Milan if he is not fit," Hughes promised on Tuesday.

Bellamy was due to fly out to Milan with the rest of the Welsh contingent today along with centre-back pair Danny Gabbidon and Andy Melville.

Both defenders are struggling with foot injuries but Hughes will not make final decision until the 11th hour.

An FAW spokesman confirmed: "Danny Gabbidon has been suffering with a bruised heel. "He has improved steadily during the week and we are optimistic that with further treatment he can be considered for selection.

"Andy Melville completed a training session yesterday with little difficulty after we received a positive report from Fulham's club doctor.

"He does have some soreness from the injury and will continue to receive treatment. He is also expected to be considered for the match."