Wales midfielder Robbie Savage has revealed his anger at criticism of his withdrawal from Wednesday's Euro qualifier against Azerbaijan.

The Birmingham star played for his club against Fulham on Sunday, but was forced to pull out of Wales' trip to Azerbaijan with a groin strain sustained in the game.

He was not prepared to name the source of the criticism, but stressed that his love of playing for Wales and the fact that his injury was genuine.

"I've heard a few people saying I haven't got the guts for a seven-hour flight, that I'm putting it on," said Savage.

"It's unbelievable, I love playing for my country.

"I've done all the hard work against Italy and out in Finland, and Welsh football is the best it's ever been under Mark Hughes.

"I wanted to play for Birmingham and for Wales. I managed the first leg, and if anyone saw the challenge in the Fulham game they'll realise it's a genuine injury."

Savage's withdrawal came after a protracted argument between Birmingham City and the Welsh management over the midfielder's availability.

He travelled to the Welsh camp in Cardiff on Sunday night after the Fulham match, but was declared unfit by the Welsh medical team.