The manager of Cardiff City, Malky Mackay, has said that he had dropped Craig Bellamy from the starting line up against Fulham just to bring in some fresh energy. Mackay insisted that the 34 years-old Welsh forward is still a vital player for him.

In the match against Fulham, Bellamy was replaced by Peter Odemwingie in the starting XI of Cardiff. Bellamy did come onto the ground, but, towards the end of the game.

Nevertheless, Cardiff won that match by 2-1 courtesy an injury time goal by Jordon Mutch.

In a press conference yesterday, when Mackay was asked about his decision of not including Bellamy in the starting line up against Fulham, he said, “I just wanted to have some fresh energy in the XI. So, I went with Peter.”

“Craig is still a huge part of our plans. He is one of the guys whom we rely upon heavily.”

“But, it’s important to ensure that we are spot on with our changes. The players who are in good nick should be out there playing.”

Meanwhile, the manager of the Wales national team, Chris Coleman, has said that after the friendly match against Finland which will take place in November, he will talk to Bellamy about his future in international football.
Bellamy has been included in the Wales squad for the upcoming couple of World Cup qualifiers against Macedonia and Belgium respectively.

Talking to the reporters about Bellamy, Coleman said, “Craig is close to 35 now and it’s not easy for him to continue playing both club and international football. After the Finland fixture, I will speak to him about his future plans.”
“He has served the Wales national team fantastically well over the years, but, he needs to take care of himself now.”