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Craig Bellamy considering retirement

Craig Bellamy says that he is thinking about retiring at the end of the season.

Cardiff City forward Craig Bellamy has revealed that he is considering retiring from football at the end of the season.

The 34-year-old, who first signed professional papers with Norwich City in 1996, was pressed on his future with the Welsh national team ahead of Tuesday's World Cup qualifier against Serbia in Cardiff.

"I know I said I would not retire from international football, but it's a two-year period to qualify [for Euro 2016] and if I start [the campaign] then step aside, it is robbing someone else of two or four matches, of vital experience," Bellamy told reporters.

"I'm a single parent now and I'm having such a battle to see my kids on a daily basis. It's so hard. Then, being away for 10 days, I'm not the only dad who has to go through it, but if you have experienced it, then you would understand."

Bellamy added that he would have no problem in adapting to life after football.

"I know I could change what I'm thinking, but the way I'm feeling now, it could be my last season in football," he added.

"I have so much to look forward to after football. Life isn't just about football. The adventure starts when you finish and I'm looking forward to that.

"I've been playing at a professional level for 17, 18 years now and there's more to life. I love the game, don't get me wrong, I've cherished every moment of it."

During his career, Bellamy has played for 10 clubs, including Newcastle United, Celtic, Liverpool and Manchester City.

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Wales national team manager Chris Coleman looks on during the International Friendly match between Wales v Ireland at the Cardiff City Stadium on August 14, 2013
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