Craig Bellamy: Oxford United want Cardiff City coach as new boss

Craig Bellamy spent 2010-11 on loan at Cardiff City and joined on a permanent basis in August 2012

Oxford United are in talks with Craig Bellamy about becoming their new manager.

The former Wales and Liverpool forward works for Cardiff City as their player development manager.

The 38-year-old was interviewed for the Wales job before his ex-team-mate Ryan Giggs was appointed in January.

League One strugglers Oxford, who are without a manager after sacking Pep Clotet last month, would be Bellamy's first senior managerial role.

The Us are 15th in the League One table, five points clear of the relegation zone.

Bellamy is highly rated as a coach at Cardiff, with first-team manager Neil Warnock praising the former Wales captain.

The Bluebirds recognise Bellamy's managerial potential, and have given him permission to speak to Oxford.

"We want to facilitate Craig's opportunities to get experience," Cardiff chief executive Ken Choo told BBC Sport Wales.

"This could be a good move for his career."

Warnock backs proposed appointment

Neil Warnock became Cardiff City manager last season and has completely changed the club's fortunes

Cardiff City manager Neil Warnock believes Bellamy's possible move to Oxford would be a good first step for his managerial career.

"I think it would be a good appointment," said the veteran manager.

"These top players need to go out and learn the business. It's not just about coaching, it's about managing up and down with the boardroom and everything.

"Craig has got great attributes. He might have been disappointed not to get the Welsh job and I hope he does get it (Oxford job).

"He can learn and this could be the first step on the ladder of his managerial career."