"When all the Liverpool lads out here in Germany heard the deal had gone through, all of us were really happy," said the Liverpool skipper.
"With Djibril Cisse suffering that bad injury, everyone can see we're a bit short up front. To bring in a player of Craig's strength and pace, with a good goalscoring record, is great news.
"I was made up when we were first linked with Craig Bellamy, because I've always thought he was a top quality player.
"I've never met him other than during a match, but I've had a few arguments with him on the pitch a few times.
"But that's something I like about him. It doesn't do anyone anyharm to have what you might call a bit of a nasty streak, in a good way.
"We all know he's got a bit of character about him, and the one thing everyone can see is he's got a real winning mentality and determination to be successful.
"That's something you've got to have to play for Liverpool.
"As captain, I'll be doing everything I can to make Craig feel at home and settle in quickly.
"You can tell a lot about a player from his body language. It's obvious he's a player who can't stand losing.
"Maybe there are certain players whoopposing fans love to hate and he comes into that category, but usually that means they're loved even more by their own fans.
"The most important thing about him is he is a class player. He's also the kind of big name signing who shows our intentions."