Injury woe for Earnshaw

Robert Eanshaw was injured after scoring at Ninian

Cardiff City striker Robert Earnshaw has been ruled out of the Wales squad to face Argentina on Wednesday - missing the chance to gain his first cap.

The livewire Bluebirds youngster had been called in for the glamour friendly, along with club-mate Daniel Gabbidon - to gain experience of the big stage.

But it seemed likely that the 20-year-old marksman would be used as a substitute at some stage by manager Mark Hughes - despite being required by Cardiff for a league fixture with Brentford 24 hours earlier.

All those plans are in tatters, though, after Earnshaw suffered another hamstring injury after scoring the first goal in the Bluebirds' 3-0 win over Swindon on Saturday.

Huge fine

City manager, Alan Cork, confirmed that Earnshaw faces another lengthy break, just after returning from a similar problem.

"It looks like another three-week rest, which is a blow for everyone," he said.

Hughes was relieved to see the majority of his Premiership stars come through their weekend games, and is likely to have talks with Craig Bellamy as the squad assembles.

The Newcastle striker is facing a huge club fine of £100,000 after being cautioned by police following an incident in the Tyneside city.

The Wales boss wants to remind the player that his responsibilities also relate to the national team, as well as his club side.