Bellamy in airport fracas - report

Newcastle striker Craig Bellamy and coach John Carver were involved in a fracas at Newcastle airport yesterday, according to The Sun.

The squad were waiting for a flight to Majorca in a private lounge when the alleged altercation took place.

Wales striker Bellamy and Sir Bobby Robson’s number two Carver reportedly got into a verbal row which developed into a fight and had to be pulled apart by players.

The club face Spanish side Real Mallorca tomorrow defending a 4-1 first leg advantage in their UEFA Cup fourth round tie.

If found guilty of any misdemeanour Bellamy could face a club fine of two weeks’ wages and further repercussions.

The 24-year-old has been sent off four times in his career and has been in trouble off the field too.

In February 2002 he was cautioned for common assault, following an incident with a female student.

In March of last year, he was involved in a row after a nightclub bouncer was allegedly racially abused. Charges were later dropped, though Bellamy was fined £750 (€1,124) for abusive behaviour.

This furore is a setback for Bellamy as he battles back from a knee injury.

Manager Robson had earlier expressed hope that Bellamy could feature in the tie. “Craig is on the plane because he has a chance,” Robson told the club’s website www.nufc.co.uk.