True test of character

BBC Sport Online football columnist Mark Aizelwood hopes pride will be enough of a motivation for the Welsh players against Belarus on Saturday.

After some vital goals and fine all-round displays for Wales in the World Cup qualifying campaign, John Hartson fully deserves his award as Wales Footballer of the Year.

With various big money transfer deals falling through at the last minute, these past seasons haven't been easy for him.

But he's now moved to Celtic, and hopefully we'll see him improve even further.

Barring any last minute injuries, he will again be leading the line for Wales against Belarus at the Millennium Stadium on Saturday.

Belarus can still make the play-offs, so it's not going to be easy for Wales. But we desperately need a win.

Hartson has been outstanding for Wales

A lot has been said by the coaches, players, journalists and pundits about Wales' results.

But the only thing that doesn't lie is the record book.

As it stands, this squad of players has the worst record of results in the history of Welsh football - 12 games without a win.

So I would like to think that this tag is motivation enough for the players without Mark Hughes having to say anything prior to kick-off.

Unfortunately, Ryan Giggs and Robbie Savage are suspended and Nathan Blake is doubtful because of injury.

Belarus have everything to play, but amazingly two of their players - Alexander Khatskevich and Valentin Belkevich - have refused to play because of a dispute with the coach.

To me, this highlights how bad their team spirit must be. Hopefully, this will work in Wales' favour.

Premiership potential

I was pleased to see that Cardiff City picked up two awards at the Wales football awards ceremony.

Andy Legg was voted clubman of the year, while striker Rob Earnshaw won the young player of the year.

Both were well deserved.

Legg had a massive influence on getting the club promoted from the Third Division, and he still commands a place in the first team this season despite all the signings they've made.

It speaks volumes for his character and ability.

Robert Earnshaw reminds me of Michael Owen.

He's an out-and-out goalscorer, but because of his slight build, he's susceptible to injuries.

Missing 10 to 15 games a season through injury will certainly hind his progress, so he might need to look towards a more regimented training programme.

He's got Premiership potential - but it remains to be seen whether he can fulfil his ambitions with Cardiff.

Swansea's Petty cash

Finally, Swansea City have a new owner after Mike Lewis decided to sell-up to Australian businessman Tony Petty.

It was quite obvious that Lewis didn't have the money to take the club forward, but he promised to bring people in who could - and that's what he's done.

The new owner will hopefully stabilize the financial side and leave Colin Addison and Peter Nicholas to concentrate on turning things around on the pitch