Cardiff City’s signed former Liverpool player Craig Bellamy on loan from Manchester City this week, and the striker has immediately rejected concerns about his fitness with some feeling he may struggle after persistent knee injuries blighted his career to date.
Now 31, Bellamy remains in his prime and enjoyed an impressive season with the Citizens last year. Despite their large and highly talented squad, Bellamy made over 30 appearances for Manchester City in the last campaign and is fully fit going into the new season with Cardiff City.
Bellamy said:
‘I’m at the height of my career. It’s strange, but my knee feels incredible and I feel in great condition.’
‘It’s probably because I understand my body much better than when I was younger.’
Bellamy also stressed that while he has been in full training, he had not yet played any games, and will also be lacking in match sharpness. However, he is confident of making a major impact, and is available to start should Dave Jones select him.
Whether he starts, or appears from the bech is a big call for Dave Jones – especially since there are calls to appoint Bellamy as captain, in place of Mark Hudson. It would be a terrible shame to lose him for a prolonged absence and Dave Jones will look to rotate and rest players in order to get the best out of his squad. For the first time, there is real strength in depth, and players like Chopra are no longer certain to start.
Signing a player of Bellamy’s quality is of little use, if he spends it constantly fighting to get fit (a la Robbie Fowler) – hopefully, his confidence will be well placed and we can get a full, and fruitful season from Craig Bellamy.
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