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Bellamy's new mature attitude
Liverpool, 16:08, February 24, 2012
Liverpool forward Craig Bellamy claims he is a changed man as he prepares for his side's Carling Cup final against Cardiff on Sunday.
Bellamy says he has grown up a lot since he returned to Anfield for a second spell after years of being dubbed as a floored genius and he is adamant that even defeat at the weekend won't halt his or the club's progress under Kenny Dalglish's leadership.
The 32-year-old has played for some big clubs in his career but surprisingly he hasn't yet won a medal in English football.
The Welsh international will be aiming to change that against the Bluebirds at Wembley, while City fans hoping to get under the skin of their former player may be left disappointed if his new found attitude is anything to go by.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Bellamy said: "I probably speak to and see people more than I have ever done in my life.
"Football is a complete hobby and I enjoy myself every day. I used to think I was obsessed but I am truly committed to my sport.
"I am committed to the club and the profession I am in and by doing that I give myself the best opportunity to be able to play well on a Saturday.
"When I go out I don't think about scoring or anything else apart from trying my hardest.
"If anything comes off then great. If it doesn't I can walk off truly knowing I have given my all and if someone was better then great.
"Going with that approach every day in training and in life has just clicked, it has made a difference.
"I have been able to control so many different things in my performance and the football looks after itself - it is a nice feeling every day.
"It isn't just about football. I try to be at ease but I still have my moments."
Bellamy has worked hard to get on top of his anger management issues and insists he wouldn't freak out if he wasn't selected to face Cardiff, which wouldn't necessarily have been the case a few years ago.
He is also trying to play down the significance of the game for the club after a run of six years without a trophy.
He added: "Honestly, I feel so comfortable in myself at the moment that even if I wasn't on the bench it wouldn't mean too much to me because it would be someone else's opportunity.
"Six years (without a trophy) isn't the worst. I can live with that because seven years ago they won the European Cup and six years ago it was the FA Cup.
"This club will win trophies, it is primed to win trophies. Every day I walk into training I have to walk past the European Cup - that says it all.
"Winning on Sunday will not make a difference to the next few years."
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