After an up-and-down season, Cardiff City finished comforably mid-table. A scintillating start was followed by a dismal end and the same players looked half as effective as previously.
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5 – DARREN PURSE
The captain had a season disrupted by injury and suspension, but was his usual dependable self alongside either Loovens or Johnson. He appeared to be Dave Jones` first choice throughout and always featured if fit, starting the season alongside Glenn Loovens.
Purse helped his side to a fantastic start in the league but received a needless red card in the Bluebirds` third straight win against Leeds United. The captain had no need to get involved in a scuffle in the dying seconds and was rightly dismissed. Following his suspension, Purse scored in three consecutive games (1 being an own goal against Plymouth) as Cardiff continued their fine form.
Some sections of the Cardiff support were calling for Rogert Johnson to start in Purse`s place after impressive performances by Roger, Purse kept his place however and showed solid form although a lack of pace brought about a tendency to rush from defence and Purse was turned too easily by some opponents.
There was reported interest in Purse during the January transfer window, with Premiership relegation battlers linked, Purse dismissed the rumours and pledged his future to Cardiff. There was more interest in the close season, again not interesting Purse who is now negotiating a contract extension at Ninian Park.
Aside from his committed and solid performances, Purse has added experience and leadership to a youthful squad, his attitude has been exemplary and it has been fantastic to see him constantly helping Chris Gunter as the young fullback broke into the first team.
Purse is uncertain to start next season as first choice but is a great guy to have around. He is just reaching his peak and is unlikely to let Cardiff down any time he is called upon.
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Roger Johnson was 300k and talk of a £1m deal for Purse sounds very attractive indeed