Photo via BBC Sport

Barry-Murphy and Bellamy 'so similar' - Lawlor

Wales and Cardiff City defender Dylan Lawlor has drawn striking parallels between his club manager, Brian Barry-Murphy, and national team coach Craig Bellamy, praising their shared tactical philosophy. The 20-year-old, who helped Cardiff secure Championship promotion last season, highlighted how both leaders emphasize a relentless focus on their own strengths rather than reacting to opponents—a style he likened to former Liverpool boss Jürgen Klopp.

Lawlor, who made his senior Wales debut under Bellamy in September 2025 and has since earned six caps, described the seamless transition between playing for Barry-Murphy’s side and representing his country, noting their identical approach to the game. His rise at Cardiff began in the final match of the 2024-25 season, when he made his league debut as a substitute under interim boss Aaron Ramsey, a fellow former pupil from Lawlor’s school in Caerphilly.

Barry-Murphy took over as Cardiff’s head coach in June 2025 following relegation, while Lawlor credits Ramsey’s mentorship as pivotal to his development, calling him an inspiration both as a player and coach.

Up nextFootball· 2h ago

Guardiola set to attend first Man City home game since guilty verdict