Craig Bellamy has defended his decision to pull out of the Wales squad, saying he can't risk another injury seback.The 29-year-old returned for the Hammers against Blackburn last weekend when he came off the bench to score the fourth goal in the 4-1 win. But, after holding discussions with officials from the club and from Wales, it was decided it would be better for him to stay and receive more treatment rather than go off on international duty.
He said: "I have to be fully fit, I cannot risk breaking down again. Me, West Ham and Wales all discussed what was the best thing to do.
"It was agreed that it would be best for me to stay behind at West Ham to continue my recovery from the hamstring injury.
"We all shared the same view that I stayed behind for more treatment. The hamstring was a little tight on Saturday and that was why I only played for 20 minutes. It still felt tight after the match."
He added: "So after working so hard during the summer to get fit, I did not want to risk breaking down again because I'd come back and done too much too soon.
"No-one can doubt my commitment to my country. I do not want to miss two crucial matches, but if I am careful and patient, I am sure I will be raring to go for the next two internationals in October.
Bellamy underwent a stomach muscle operation in the summer before picking up the hamstring injury during a pre-season friendly at Ipswich.
