Bellamy On The Bench Against Leeds United ?

Cardiff City forward Craig Bellamy could be set for a return to the Bluebirds' bench on Saturday when Leeds United visit CCS following the International break. Bellamy had been sidelined with a calf problem, but also made public his mental struggles following the death of Gary Speed last year.

There is no rush to get Bellamy back on the pitch, and while we previously struggled for pace and flair - the likes of Craig Noone, Nicky Maynard and Tommy Smith are all available with South Korean star Kim Bo Kyung yet to even make his debut!

Rumours had surfaced that Bellamy was considering retirement, but this has been strenuously denied. He is undoubtedly a fantastic player at Championship level and with Malky Mackay seeming to move towards a 4-4-2 system which worked well against Wolves - Bellamy could well aim for the striking position he would prefer - whilst also offering pace and quality on either wing.

Bellamy would be a natural partner for Heidar Helguson, though the prospect of Craig Bellamy and Nicky Maynard would frighten even the best Championship defences with their raw pace and superb movement. If City were able to use the wingers, and keep the ball on the floor - there is no reason why a Bellamy/Maynard combination would not be extremely successful.

With his calf injury healed, and a week of training behind him - Bellamy is ready to return and fight for his place. He won't start against Leeds, but not a bad option to have on the bench.....

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