Southend United starlet Garry Cross pleaded his innocence after it was revealed that his tackle had sidelined Norwich City's £6 million-rated striker Craig Bellamy for the next ten months.

The Welsh international was stretched off the Roots Hall pitch seven minutes from the end of Blues' 2-1 friendly victory over the First Division side last Friday as a precautionary measure.

However, the 20-year-old Canary was anything but chirpy on Thursday as doctors ruled him out for the whole of the new season with cruciate ligament damage.

Concerned Shrimpers youngster Cross - a first year professional at Roots Hall - was quick to wish the Norfolk outfit's hitman a speedy recovery.

"I hope Craig is back on his feet and playing again as soon as possible," said the 18-year-old right sided defender.

"There was no malice in the challenge I made on Craig and I think everyone inside Roots Hall saw that I took the ball cleanly.

"I've seen players get back up unscathed from some much worse tackles in my time. Craig's injury was just an unlucky freak."

Cross, who comes from South Woodham Ferrers and is a product of the Seasiders' youth development scheme, believes he has escaped any blame from the Norwich camp.

"I didn't get a chance to see Craig, but I saw Norwich's manager Bruce Rioch after the game and he was all right with me," added Cross.

"I asked him to pass on my regards to Craig and wish him all the best. I'm sure that if my tackle had been bad then a few of the Norwich lads might have had a go at me on the pitch, which they didn't."

Speaking from hospital in Norwich, Bellamy, who is being head-hunted by a host of Premier League clubs, confirmed that there was no ill-feeling towards Cross.

"The tackle was a bit of a lunge, but there was no intent from the Southend player to hurt me. I've just been very unlucky," he said.

Meanwhile, Cross, who has impressed in Blues' pre-season campaign, is looking to win a regular place in the first team this season.

"This is a big year for me. It's make or break and I intend to make the most of it," he said.

"I've done well in the friendlies and it's great that the gaffer Alan Little has enough faith in me to give me a chance."

Garry Cross - wishes crocked Norwich star Craig Bellamy a speedy recovery

Picture: DAVE MONTIER

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