Fowler's presence a boost to Bellamy

Last updated : 16 July 2006 By Al Campbell
Bellamy played alongside Fowler for ten minutes at the start of the second half yesterday and that was enough time for the new partnership to work as Fowler set up Bellamy for his goal.

After the game Bellamy spoke about delight in playing alongside a Liverpool legend like Robbie Fowler.

"I've admired Robbie for years, he is a great player and he set me up with my goal when he lifted a very good ball into my stride for me to run on to and score.

"It means a lot to me to be on the same side as him. I have played against him before but being in the same team is a great honour.

"The boss [Rafael Benitez] told me before the game I would be on for about an hour, that I had just a few minutes after the break before I was substituted.

"So it was pretty special to get that goal, I know it's only a friendly, but it was good to score in front of the Liverpool fans. I'm one myself.

"They have taken to me well, but then Liverpool fans always give their new players plenty of support, that's what they are like.

"I know I've been given a 15-goal target by the boss, but I don't think pre-season ones count! But I expect to score goals, and that's what I aim to do."