Bellamy advice to Wales rugby team never more important than in Kobe

As WALES head into the final week of a long season, the words of Craig Bellamy have suddenly become more relevant.

- By BEN JAMES

Wales' football manager had visited Matt Sherratt’s side prior to them flying out to Japan, offering advice to the squad ahead of their summer tour.

The former Liverpool and Cardiff City striker was appointed Wales manager a year ago, following Rob Page's departure, and has impressed with his approach to the job - ensuring the national team go toe-to-toe with whoever they face.

Naturally, when brought in to speak to Wales' rugby team, his advice was as strong as you'd expect.

So much so that, as Wales’ losing run at Test level stretched to 18 matches on the weekend, the words Bellamy offered up have become all the more important to players and coaches in Kobe.

It's understood that the Wales manager explained how, if he was in a team that had lost that many games in a row, he'd be excited at the prospect of being the one who took the initiative and ended the run.

"There were a couple of things that resonated and that was one," said scrum coach Adam Jones.

"He said everyone knows Wales because of the Welsh rugby team.

"As much as it's where we are now, it’s still a big thing. Welsh rugby is still a big thing in world rugby.