Hughes defends Bellamy actions

My Account
Logout

Create an Evening Standard Account

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Welcome! Sign in here

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Forgot your password ?

Registration

* indicates fields that are mandatory

Email *

Password *

Confirm Password *

First name *

Surname *

Postcode *

Country *

Mobile phone number

Username *

Gender *

Year of birth *

When you sign up...

You will have access to all our online competitions, discounted offers and can post comments on our site.

You will also receive The Weekender newsletter sent every Thursday - it’s full of fantastic offers and ideas for the weekend. You can update your email preferences in your account page when you log in.

Other newsletters and emails

Homes & Property Newsletter - Yes I want to receive the weekly email with all the latest news on property in the capital

Occasionally we would also like to send you relevant emails detailing specific offers either from ourselves or carefully selected partners. If you would prefer not to receive these then please tick the appropriate boxes below. We will never pass on your details.

I do not want to receive additional offers and information from the Evening Standard

I do not want to receive additional offers and information sent by Evening Standard on behalf of carefully selected partners

Terms and Conditions

* I have read, understood and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of Evening Standard

Registration

Mail Sent for Registration Confirmation.

A confirmation email has been sent. Please activate your account by clicking on the activation link sent in your mail box.

The Football Association are still deciding whether to bring any action against Bellamy for what appeared to be a shove in the face of a supporter, who had gone onto the pitch shortly after Michael Owen had scored in stoppage time.

"All Craig has done is go over there and tell the guy to get off the pitch," said Hughes.

Although Hughes' assistant Mark Bowen claimed Bellamy though he was about to be spat at, TV replays show the Welshman advancing towards the melee and that the fan was being held by two stewards when Bellamy struck out.

If the FA decide such conduct warrants a charge of violent conduct, it could mean a three-game ban for a player who has been embroiled in so much disciplinary trouble before.

However, Hughes is not expecting that to happen and has defended Bellamy's actions.

"Craig wasn't privy to how much time was left to enable us to get back into the game," added Hughes.

"The guy made an aggressive move towards him and Craig wanted to get him off the pitch. Craig just put a defensive hand out to push him away. You can never be quite sure what is going to happen in those situations.

"We have not been contacted by the FA but if we are, that is what we will say."