The head coach of Cardiff City Malky Mackay has insisted that the 34 years old Welshman Craig Bellamy still is an important player for the team even though he has only made 6 appearances for the Premier League team in this season and was left on the sidelines in their last few matches.

“Craig is absolutely part of and involved in everything we do here.He has been rested over the last couple of matches, but is always in contention." said Mackay

Cardiff City is struggling in the Premier League fighting their way out of the bottom relegation spots alongside Sunderland and Crystal Palace as those are the only 2 clubs behind them in the standings.

Craig Bellami revealed that he turned down the chance to play for Manchester United in 2 occasions. His agent was in talks with the Premier League club back in 2010 but later finished off by signing a loan deal with Cardiff City.

The Welshman admitted that his history with Sir. Alex Ferguson is longer than most people know as the Scottish tactician was tracking him down as far back as 2002 when his representatives travelled to see him at the training grounds of Manchester United but ultimately made his move to Newcastle United because of the joy that it is to play for Sir. Bobby Robson.

"Actually, there was a link with Sir Alex as far back as 2002, when my representatives went to see him at United's training ground, with a view to a move going ahead," he added.

"But Newcastle had just qualified for the Champions League; I loved playing for Sir Bobby Robson and had just been offered a new contract there.

Craig Bellamy has played in Manchester City, Liverpool, Newcastle United, Blackburn, Cardiff City and Celtic but never did get to land a deal with Manchester United despite all of their interest in signing him.