Newcastle manager Graeme Souness is to study video evidence before deciding whether to punish Craig Bellamy, who was caught by television cameras abusing him after being substituted during Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Charlton.
”I did not see it, but I can understand players not being happy,” said Souness, who replaced Bellamy after 66 minutes. ”I will look at it and ask him if it was directed at me, and I will let you know what happens.”
Bellamy stared disbelievingly at the Newcastle bench when his number was held up and he was replaced by Shola Ameo, having put his side in front just before half-time.
As he jogged reluctantly off, he was seen mouthing abuse.
Souness said it made sense to replace the striker, who had played twice for Wales during the international break.
”He has played two games, has lost two games,” said Souness. ”Psychologically, he is not going to be in great condition, physically he is not going to be at his best, so I think it was a common-sense thing to do.
”If you are a top player, what comes hand in hand with that is a big ego and you have to be prepared to be substituted if a manager feels the situation is right.
”That is what I am paid for, making decisions and if you get too many wrong you are looking for another job, that’s the price on my ticket.
”We have a squad of 17 or 18 top players, and that is the way it has to be — it is not any different at Manchester United, Arsenal or Chelsea. It is a balancing act for the manager.” — Sapa-AFP