Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has revealed that he was disappointed when Craig Bellamy left the club in 2007.
Welsh international Bellamy returned to Anfield on transfer deadline day after spells with West Ham United, Manchester City and Cardiff City.
Skipper Gerrard, who is nearing a return from injury, has spoken of his delight that Bellamy has arrived back on Merseyside for a second time.
"I'm delighted that Craig is back - I didn't want him to leave in the first place," said the 31-year-old.
"That pace and the fiery character he's got will help us in our push for success this season.
"When he was here before he was popular and one of the hardest working in training. He was always in the gym getting himself in good shape."
Bellamy scored seven league goals during his first stint with Liverpool.
