Bellamy ‘has the mental strength to cope’

RAFAEL BENITEZ believes Craig Bellamy will be able to handle the pressure of playing three vital Liverpool games which coincide with his court appearance.

The Anfield manager insists the demands facing former club Blackburn today are well within the mental strength of the Wales international.

Bellamy should have been at Cardiff Magistrates Court this week – while on Wales duty – to answer a common assault charge, which he denies. The case was adjourned – and following a court decision yesterday, the new hearing will clash with three crucial matches next month.