SportwayNews

Craig Bellamy is expected to leave Championship Burnley to succeed former Wales team-mate Rob Page

Craig Bellamy has emerged as the top candidate for the Football Association of Wales (FAW) to replace Rob Page, who was dismissed last month. Bellamy is currently at Burnley, where he served as acting head coach until Scott Parker's recent appointment.

While Parker expressed interest in retaining Bellamy, it appears the former Wales captain is eager to manage his national team. BBC Sport Wales reports that final details of an agreement are still being negotiated with both Bellamy and Burnley, but an official announcement is expected soon.

Bellamy, who narrowly missed out on the role to Ryan Giggs in 2018, has long aspired to manage Wales. He met with senior FAW officials last week and impressed during their discussions. His appointment would conclude the search for Page's replacement, which began after Wales failed to qualify for Euro 2024.

Other candidates considered for the position included Arsenal legend Thierry Henry, Georgia's manager Willy Sagnol, and Oxford United boss Des Buckingham. However, Bellamy's strong showing in discussions secured him the opportunity to lead Wales in their bid to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

Bellamy's tenure will begin with a Nations League home match against Turkey on September 6, followed by an away game against Montenegro on September 9.