The Welshman has been one of the biggest reasons for the transformation from mid-table to Champions League in the past couple of seasons, but the one big complaint about him is that he doesn’t take enough of his chances. A record of 23 goals in 75 games isn’t bad for a second striker, but the player himself recognises that he could realistically have scored double that from the chances he creates for himself.
"I'm not going to lie, I should have scored more goals last season," Bellamy told The Journal.
"I didn't make the most of the opportunities I had and I know that. But I will score more next season, I'm certain of it. I don't want to make too many excuses for last season but you have to look at the sort of chances I was getting.
"They weren't tap-ins from six yards. A lot of them I was making myself by beating players and causing problems in the penalty area. I was running in on goal from 40 yards a lot of the time. When you are a striker, the most important thing is to make sure you get the chances and I was doing that.
"I'm not the sort of player who just hangs around in the area waiting for chances to come my way.
"I will spend a lot of time out wide, running into corners and working for others so a lot of the chances have to be created by myself. I know I missed too many when I did get into the positions and it's an area I will improve on. Keepers made saves and there were times when I hit the woodwork or defenders on the line, but I know I have to start putting these chances away."
If Bellamy can turn more of his chances into goals then a realistic challenge for the Premiership crown is a distinct possibility.