Tony Pulis backs ex-Newcastle and Liverpool forward to be a 'really good' manager

Tony Pulis is a big fan of Craig Bellamy

The Middlesbrough manager, who was speaking to the BBC, confirmed that he was not in the running for the Wales job after the departure of Chris Coleman as he was keen to remain in club football.

Another name in the frame for the job was that of Bellamy, and Pulis has revealed that he feels the experienced Welshman could prove to a be a 'really good' choice should a Football League club take a punt on him.

READ: Middlesbrough, Villa and Forest handed transfer blowBellamy was linked with the Oxford United job earlier this year and is currently working with Cardiff City in their youth section - but Pulis believes he could carve out a successful managerial career, despite his reputation as a 'hot head'.

"I like Bellamy, I think he's a great lad, he's got this reputation as being a bit of a hot head at times, but when you sit down with him and work with him and talk to him and I've had good time with him, I think he's got a wonderful demeanour about him," Pulis said.

"People sometimes perceive him as different to what he really is.

MORE: Pulis keen to see new signing add to Boro's goal threat"I think given the opportunity, given a chance, Bellamy could go somewhere and surprise people. I think he's got that desire energy and commitment.

"If I was Craig I would go more into league football, he'd be kicking his heels in international football. If a Football League club appoint him, I think they'd be picking a really good man."

Pulis also confirmed that he was not interested in the Wales job, which eventually went to Ryan Giggs, despite plenty of speculation.

The Boro boss is keen to remain in day-to-day football for the time being, but hasn't ruled out looking at international management in the future.

"I still don't think I can get away from day to day management," he admitted.

QUIZ: Test your knowledge of Boro's start to the season!"I haven't got it in me to say 'I am going to close myself down for long periods of time.'

"I still have enough energy to run a football club day in, day out.

"It will come, time will come, but whether I get the chance, we will have to wait and see.

"It just wasn't right for me."