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Munster must address alcohol: Bellamy

Craig Bellamy has admitted Cameron Munster has an uneasy relationship with alcohol and must address his behavioural issues.

Cameron Munster catches the ball during an NRL game in Melbourne.
Melbourne coach Craig Bellamy says he hasn't spoken to Cameron Munster about an early release. (AAP)

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Source: AAP


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Craig Bellamy admits Cameron Munster has a problem behaving when affected by alcohol after the under-fire playmaker's bust-up with Ben Hunt brought his NRL career into question.

The Melbourne, Queensland and Australian five-eighth is reportedly on thin ice at the Storm after coming to blows with Kangaroos teammate Hunt during last year's World Cup.

The club moved swiftly to deny Munster could be released however it has brought his off-field behaviour into focus.

In 2016, Munster was banned for 12 months by Maroons management after he was one of eight players to break curfew during an Emerging Origin camp.

Bellamy said the club had not discussed releasing Munster from the final two years of his contract but admitted the 23-year-old had an uneasy relationship with drinking.

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"Deep down he's a really good kid. I think everyone really likes him," Bellamy told Channel 7.

"Early he had some rough edges we had to fold off a touch. Following that World Cup he just seemed to lose his way there for a little bit.

"At times, he has some issues every now and then when he drinks alcohol. He needs to temper that and understand how much he can drink or can't drink so he doesn't do silly things."

Munster is considered the long-term playmaker around which Bellamy will build his side following the retirements of Billy Slater and Cameron Smith.

He is expected to be joined in the halves by young talent Brodie Croft, and is also in strong contention to establish himself in Queensland State of Origin and Kangaroos teams this year.

Bellamy implored Munster not to waste his opportunity and address his errant behaviour.

"He just needs to behave himself off the field and be consistent about it," Bellamy said.

"He's one hell of a footy player. He's a great person as well."


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