Bowens Wales role dilemna

Last updated : 29 August 2002 By Brian Cartlidge

Mark Bowen & Steve Bruce
Bowen did not travel with Wales for last week's friendly international with Croatia and Blues manager Steve Bruce has stressed that club affairs must take priority for Bowen with the club now back in the top flight.

Bruce said: "It is a difficult one. I don't really want to stop Mark and he's done very well with them.

"But his priority is with us and it is very difficult for him to be away from the club for a long, long period.

"Mark understands that and at the moment we've just said that we're a Premiership team and we've got to make sure his allegiance stays with us.

"Wales are away again next week and we can't have Mark away for four to five days. He is too important for us here.

"It is fair to say that it is going to be very difficult for Mark to do the two roles. I've spoken to Mark Hughes and he realises that.

"He realises the situation and he understands and Mark Bowen is realistic and he understands as well.''