Barry-Murphy and Bellamy 'so similar' - Lawlor

What the report says

Cardiff and Wales defender Dylan Lawlor says Brian Barry-Murphy and Craig Bellamy share a very similar footballing outlook, making it easier for him to move between club and international duty. BBC Sport reported that the 20-year-old has become an important player for Cardiff under Barry-Murphy after the club won promotion back to the Championship last season, while Bellamy gave him his senior Wales debut in September 2025 and he has since made six appearances for his country.

Lawlor said both coaches place the emphasis on their own team rather than over-focusing on the opposition, and that their detailed, confidence-building approach suits his own view of the game. In the interview on Wales’ Welsh-language podcast, he compared that style with the method often associated with former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp. BBC Sport also noted that Barry-Murphy was appointed Cardiff head coach in June 2025 after the club’s relegation from the Championship.

The defender also reflected on earlier chances at Cardiff, including work under interim boss Aaron Ramsey, whom he described as an inspiration and a helpful influence in his development. Lawlor’s recent progress has been interrupted by a knee injury suffered while playing for Wales against Ghana in June, which kept him out of pre-season and the start of the league campaign. He has now returned to action and said he hopes to be fit for Wales’ November matches against Portugal and Norway.