Cardiff City Centre-Back Crisis

Cardiff City manager Dave Jones could be faving a major selection dilemma this weekend with all three of his centre-backs carrying knocks.

Cardiff are blessed with a strong centre-back unit with Darren Purse, Glenn Loovens and Roger Johnson all quality players at this level.


However, for saturday’s match away at Plymouth Argyle, the Bluebirds could in-fact be in real trouble in that position. Darren Purse recently underwent surgery on a tear to his knee. The injury is not serious but painful and Purse is still 2 weeks away from his expected return date.

Meanwhile, Glenn Loovens has picked up an unfortunately timed foot injury in training and may also miss the clash.


Roger Johnson was hurt in the closing stages of the 2-1 victory over Norwich City, but stepped up to head the winner sparking a ‘limping’ celebration as the defender hobbled towards the touchline. The injury was similar to a previous one picked up by the former Wycombe Wanderers man, but is not as serious as thought and after two weeks rest, Johnson should be fit for the game.


Johnson is almost certain to play but Purse is highly likely to miss out, Loovens also rated as 50:50 at this stage while ’emergency’ centre-half Kevin McNaughton is still not recovered from his groin problem.


This means that either Chris Gunter or Darcy Blake could be asked to cover at centre-back, Gunter having played there in a recent Wales U21s match and Blake covering as a centre-half in the Carling Cup (this year and last).


The situation is not ideal, and both youngsters will probably be involved, with Gunter expected to keep his right back shirt.


Plans to bring in a loan centre-half have failed to materialise despite a two week gap and with no word from the club, it looks like we will be continuing with the current squad for the time being.