Animal instincts drive Liverpool's 'Chimp'

LONDON - Rejuvenated striker Craig Bellamy has credited a mind-management guru with helping him keep his volatile temper under control as the Welshman looks to claim a League Cup winner's medal.

Bellamy, who hopes to lead Liverpool to silverware against his hometown club Cardiff in Sunday's showpiece at Wembley, revealed he has worked hard on and off the field.

The results have been there for all to see.

In the second leg of the League Cup semifinal at Anfield, the 32-year-old was warmly applauded by Manchester City's traveling fans despite the fact he had scored the goal which ended their hopes of a Wembley appearance.

"The 'Chimp' still comes out every now and then but I have to think about the rational, human-being side," said Bellamy in reference to his new outlook on soccer.

The "Chimp" reference is in relation to a mind-management book by Dr Steve Peters, whom Bellamy has spoken with.

The Chimp Paradox explains how to separate the human from the ape element in the brain and therefore control your responses.

But it is not just the psychological side of the game that Bellamy has started to pay more attention to, he is working hard on keeping himself in shape.

"I am in (training) as early as I can to make sure I do everything right to be able to play well," he said.

"I am one of the last ones to leave because I have to do ice baths, swimming pools and treatments and work with my knees on a daily basis. It has been a complete revamp for me but it is amazing."

Bellamy is expected to start Sunday's final as he searches for his first medal in English soccer.

"Football is a complete hobby and I enjoy myself every day. I used to think I was obsessed but I am truly committed to my sport," he said.

"I am committed to the club and the profession I am in and by doing that I give myself the best opportunity to be able to play well on a Saturday.

"When I go out I don't think about scoring or anything else apart from trying my hardest.

"If anything comes off then great. If it doesn't, I can walk off truly knowing I have given my all and if someone was better then great.

"Going with that approach every day in training and in life has just clicked, it has made a difference.

"I have been able to control so many different things in my performance and the football looks after itself - it is a nice feeling every day. It isn't just about football. I try to be at ease, but I still have my moments.

"It has been eventful because it has all been in practice in training, taking weeks, not yelling when someone gives the ball away."

Agence France-Presse