Magnificent McNaughton Impresses For Cardiff

Following the red card to Gabor Gyepes on Sunday, Cardiff City would usually turn to Darren Purse to slot into the back two but one effect of our increased squad depth is that the former captain is no longer selected on the bench meaning that Kevin McNaughton was required to move infield and cover the centre-back position.


Quite simply, Kev was superb. Under such circumstances, his performance was put into perspective and he did so well that Jones will seriously consider keeping him there if Gyepes' ban is upheld.


McNaughton belied his short stature to dominate aerially but it was on the floor that he really took charge, nipping ahead of attackers on countless occasions, stepping in casually to take possession and providing an ever-solid defensive basis despite the lack of cover and huge spaces Sheffield United had to exploit.


Normally you wouldn't assume the defenders impressed particularly after a 3-0 win but this was no ordinary game and McNaughton's display was inspirational. All the players had to run their socks off and did so brilliantly but none could match the determination, passion and obvious quality on show from our grey-haired Scotsman.


On occasions, I lost sight of Cotterill in the corner, hidden behind a beam supporting the old Bob bank. Despite supporting blades and a great deal of space, it was McNaughton who emerged with the ball, stepping into midfield and trying to set an attack up.


I didn't hear a man of the match award given yesterday, but my vote goes hands down to Mr Kevin McNaughton - a great performance.

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