The Local Lowdown: Cardiff City

The last couple of seasons have seen Cardiff struggle towards the foot of the Championship. Why the decline after relegation from the Premier League in 2019?

The Covid pandemic hit Cardiff's owner, Vincent Tan, and his leisure business particularly hard. They had spent an enormous amount of money under Neil Warnock to get that Premier League success, but the belt tightened in a big way during lockdown. There was a rapid defunding of the squad and the requisite quality was just not there. It has been a struggle, all things considered.

Erol Bulut has made an impressive start to his reign as manager. What’s changed under his stewardship?

It was refreshing to see Cardiff look further afield for this appointment. In doing so, they also looked abroad for some of their signings, too, all of whom have represented really good value for money. I think it's a better squad than they've had in previous years, Bulut oversaw a really positive summer window and there's no substitute for a good squad, really. He appears demanding and doesn't dish out praise too easily, that much I can say for certain!

Is it realistic to think Cardiff can push for promotion this season?

I would say it is an unrealistic aim, but funnier things have happened. The calibre of squads in the Championship this season is off the scale and while Cardiff did have a productive summer, they will have to go great guns in January if they are to maintain what has been a very positive start. Some fans are hopeful of a top-six finish, mind.

Aaron Ramsey (left) leads the celebrations after Cardiff beat Swansea in September's south Wales derby

Aaron Ramsey initially made a big impact on his return to his boyhood club, but has not featured since September due to injury. What’s the latest on his recovery?

Now that was some day when he returned! He added to that feelgood factor when he arrived, everything just seemed to be heading in a positive direction. He's been a big loss, because he was sensational in those opening six matches. He was looking at an early December return, but suffered a slight setback and it's looking more likely to be the new year, which is frustrating.

Which players have starred in Ramsey’s absence?

It's funny, actually, I wouldn't say there have been standout players, per se, but a real collective effort. The defence, in particular, have been magnificent. From Perry Ng to new signing Dimitrios Goutas, that back four can be thanked for this positive start to the campaign. Josh Bowler has looked really sharp, too, so he is potentially one to look out for further up the pitch.

How do you see Saturday's game going, and how will Cardiff approach it?

I think it's a really tough game for Cardiff. I wouldn't be surprised if they set up a little more defensively and packed the midfield more than in previous weeks. I think most teams in this division would snap your hand off for a point at St Mary's.