CARDIFF CITY boss Malky Mackay insists fringe players will have a big say in the Bluebirds’ season.
Summer signings Kim Bo-Kyung and Etien Velikonja have been bit-part players since arriving at Cardiff, as have the likes of Filip Kiss, Joe Mason, Rudy Gestede and Kadeem Harris this term.
But Mackay’s Championship leaders – who are back in action at Nottingham Forest on Saturday – insists that all his players will be needed in what is a long and arduous campaign.
“We have a squad full of quality,” said Mackay, who has managed to quickly gel the talent in his squad after a busy summer of recruitment.
“We have a mix of strong, experienced guys who know exactly what is needed and younger players who have all the ability and passion needed to make their mark.
“Every player we have is here for a reason and that is because they have the talent and character to play for Cardiff City.
“Some of our young players have had to wait for their chance, but I talk to everyone of them on an individual basis.
“I explain everything to them in terms of what is needed and how they can keep making progress. We look after our young players in all sorts of ways and that includes making sure they have the care and attention which allows them to settle into the club and area.
“All players, no matter what their age and experience, can improve and everybody is focused on the next match.
“These young players will play their part in what is a long, hard season because I have a belief and trust in them.
“They know that and I speak to them all the time about how I expect them to develop and where I believe their career is heading. Their chance will come.”
South Korea midfielder Kim has an interpreter with him all the time but he is quickly learning to speak English.
He is due back from international duty in Iran later this week while other members of Cardiff’s cosmopolitan squad have been around Europe with their countries.
Mackay also keeps an open line of communication with more experienced players who find themselves out of action. Stephen McPhail is working towards full fitness after a hamstring problem, while Nicky Maynard is ruled out until well into the new year after suffering a serious knee ligament injury.
“Stephen is back in training and is now over the immediate effects of the hamstring injury,” explained Mackay.
“He is being dipped in and out of training and we are monitoring his progress.
“He is close to being back in the matchday squad and being available again.
“We also ensure Nicky remains with the group as he is part of everything we do.”
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