Wales manager Craig Bellamy has confirmed that he has the freedom to select Rangers forward Tom Lawrence, despite the player’s involvement in a serious car accident five years ago. Lawrence, who last played for Wales in September 2019, was involved in a crash that left his then Derby teammate Richard Keogh seriously injured. Following the incident, Lawrence was ordered to perform 180 hours of unpaid work and was disqualified from driving for two years by a district judge who considered jailing him.
Despite suggestions that some Football Association of Wales officials were unhappy with Lawrence’s inclusion in squads, Bellamy dismissed these claims, stating that he has never heard any such concerns. The 30-year-old forward has not featured for Wales since a friendly against Mexico in March 2021. Former Derby manager Wayne Rooney had previously suggested that Lawrence was being overlooked due to past issues between him and Bellamy’s predecessor, Rob Page. However, Page refuted these claims in September 2022, attributing Lawrence’s absence to the emergence of young talents like Brennan Johnson and Rubin Colwill.
Bellamy explained that Lawrence has faced stiff competition for a place in the squad, despite his impressive performances for Rangers this season. The forward has scored four goals, including one against Lyon in the Europa League, before sustaining a hamstring injury. Lawrence expressed his openness to return to the national team and revealed that he had discussions with Bellamy regarding a potential comeback.
Although Bellamy opted not to include Lawrence in recent Wales squads due to squad numbers, he emphasized his admiration for the player. The manager highlighted that while he values Lawrence’s abilities, decisions have to be made based on squad requirements. Lawrence’s availability for international duty was further complicated by his recent injury, which ruled him out of contention for upcoming matches.
In conclusion, Bellamy’s affirmation of his autonomy to select Lawrence indicates a positive outlook for the player’s potential return to the Wales national team. Lawrence’s determination to regain his place in the squad, coupled with his strong performances for Rangers, sets the stage for a potential comeback in future fixtures under Bellamy’s management.