O'Brien backs Bellamy quality

ANDY O'BRIEN believes that Newcastle United will miss controversial striker Craig Bellamy whose very public falling-out with manager Graeme Souness resulted in his departure on loan to Celtic.

"I think Craig has been fantastic for Newcastle and we wish him well at Celtic. He's only on loan until the end of the season so it remains to be seen what will happen with his situation," said O'Brien.

"People have different opinions but I personally rate him as a very good player and I'm sure he probably will be missed because there are very few players who are as quick as him in the Premier League."