Gerrard: I didn't want Bellamy to leave

Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard expressed his happiness at the return of striker Craig Bellamy and insisted he never wanted him to leave.

The Welsh international completed a shock return to Anfield following a free transfer from Manchester City on the final day of the transfer window.

Bellamy spent a season with the Kops back in 2006/07 but did not enjoy the best of times, and was consequently sold to West Ham.

Speaking of the Welsh man return, Gerrard can't be happier and revealed his regret over his departure four years ago.

"I'm delighted that Craig is back - I didn't want him to leave in the first place," the Liverpool captain told the club's official website.

"That pace and the fiery character he's got will help us in our push for success this season.

"When he was here before he was popular and one of the hardest working in training. He was always in the gym getting himself in good shape.

"What people need to realise is that Craig is a top professional. He works really hard day in, day out.

"He's very knowledgeable about the game and I know even though he's slightly older than me he will still want to learn and do well here.

"I'm sure he will be desperate to play for Kenny. He will have watched Liverpool from the outside like me in recent months and seen a lot of positive things. He will be excited to come back and we're glad to have him back."

Meanwhile, Gerrard will be hoping to make a return from his injury against Tottenham on 18 September.