Bellamy call-up for ITV in Russia

CRAIG BELLAMY has been added to the ITV team for this summer’s World Cup, writes Joe Bernstein. The 38-year-old former Newcastle, Liverpool and Wales striker (above), now a Cardiff City coach, shone as a pundit at Euro 2016. He will travel around Russia as a co-commentator, with station chiefs valuing his attitude and knowledge.

ITV have already signed up Gary Neville, Glenn Hoddle, Lee Dixon and Ian Wright for their coverage along with Ryan Giggs, who beat Bellamy to the vacant Wales manager’s job earlier this season.

DARRON GIBSON has left Sunderland by mutual consent after being charged with drink driving last month, writes Craig

Hope. The 30-year-old Republic of Ireland midfielder will appear in court on April 17 to answer the charge of driving with excess alcohol in his system.

He was initially suspended by the club after his car was involved in an accident near the training ground on March 17.

ASHLEY MAITLAND-NILES says Arsenal are determined to qualify for next season’s Champions League by finishing in the Premier League top four.

They go into today’s match with Stoke in sixth place, 13 points behind Spurs, and with the Europa League seeming an easier route into Europe. But England Under-21 defender Maitland-Niles said: ‘Our focus is solely on the Premier League.’