Hughes expecting tough Bellamy test

Northern Ireland captain Aaron Hughes will come face to face with his Newcastle team-mate Craig Bellamy tomorrow and admits it is a daunting prospect.

Hughes is expected to revert to a central defensive role from right-back in the World Cup qualifier against Wales in Cardiff.

He knows he will have his work cut out against the pacey striker, who is playing to a good level already this season.

Bellamy scored in the 2-0 defeat of Latvia and has found the target twice in the Barclays Premiership for Newcastle.

Hughes said: “I do not think too many people would look forward to facing Craig. He is on a high and scoring goals. He is one of the main danger men for Wales.”

The home side can also call on John Hartson and Rob Earnshaw in attack and Hughes added: “All three are good strikers.”

Hughes could partner Sunderland’s George McCartney as he is available again after sitting out the defeat by Poland at the weekend through suspension.

McCartney said: “The match against Wales is one I would love to play in. It is a big game, there is a lot at stake and many of the players know each other.”

Manager Lawrie Sanchez says he will switch the team around but would not go into the specifics of his plan.

“There probably will be changes for the Welsh match but there were always going to be a few tactical switches anyway,” he said.

“We were always going to go 4-4-2 on Saturday and go for the win – the staff will have a chat and we will talk with the players and I will come up with a team who can do well in Cardiff.”

James Quinn looks likely to partner David Healy up front after winning praise from Sanchez after the Poland game.

It was the striker’s first match since an ankle operation and he is looking to re-establish himself in the team and for his Dutch club Willem II.

Quinn is so determined to play that he will consider quitting Holland if he fails to feature in domestic games.

“I still have two years of my contract to run but if I feel it is necessary to return, even to play in the lower leagues, that is what I will do. I have always taken pride in playing for my country and I will not let anything stand in the way.”