WALES manager Mark Hughes is hoping that John Hartson can provide him with the perfect tonic to a turbulent 24 hours.

Hughes' preparations for Group Nine pace-setters Wales' Euro 2004 double-header with second-placed Italy and improving Finland hit choppy waters last night.

First, the Wales manager was told by Newcastle United that striker Craig Bellamy will probably miss the two games due to his lingering knee problem.

Then it was revealed flamboyant Italian superstar Francesco Totti is recovering well from a hip injury.

So with that double-dose of bad news in mind, Hughes will be praying frontman Hartson will make a successful comeback for Celtic tonight.

The Scottish giants aim to complete their qualification assignment for this season's Champions League in their second-leg tie with MTK Hungaria at Parkhead, already leading 4-0 from the first-leg.

The 28-year-old frontman has been sidelined for five months following a back operation. And his rehabilitation for that problem was hindered by a calf problem.

Now Hartson is set to make his long-awaited Celtic return, just in time for Wales' San Siro showdown with Italy in ten days time and their Millennium Stadium date with the Finns a fortnight from today.

Bellamy travelled to London yesterday to consult a specialist over his problematic knee.

Newcastle boss Sir Bobby Robson admitted: "I would say his chances of playing for Wales have diminished."

Roma captain Totti suffered bruising to his back following his side's draw with Real Betis. Initial medical reports said the player would be out for two weeks but Roma doctor Mario Brozzi added: "We are hopeful Francesco can recover in time for international duty."