Cardiff City OWE A Performance Tonight

Cardiff City face a huge game tonight amid a worrying reversal in fortunes which has led to widespread criticism of the playing squad, several individual players and the management both in terms of tactics, transfers and reactions to recent events.

With four defeats from 5 and just 2 goals (including a penalty), City have plummeted down the Championship table and look a shadow of their former selves. The swagger and confidence has disappeared but more worryingly, the effort and determination also appears lacking - a mortal sin to Cardiff City fans.

Some decent players like Richard Langley, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Danny Gabbidon have been castigated for a lack of effort at times and their laidback attitudes often riled the passionate support. Jay Bothroyd finds himself tarred with the same brush at this moment in time and needs a fix soon. Players like Willie Boland, Andy Legg or Jeff Eckhardt were loved by the fans for their 100% commitment, determination and passion despite never being the most naturally talented of players.

Over the past few games, the strikers have been singled out but in truth their service has been non-existent and both have seen good goals ruled out by incorrect offside calls. Of the midfield, only Chris Burke has emerged with credit for some bustling, gutsy performances but his final product has been lacking and he is far from top form. The difference is that he always wanted the ball, always tried to show ambition and never hid from his responsibilities.

Whittingham, Hudson and Marshall have all come in for serious criticism while serious doubts remain over the erratic Quinn, Gerrard and linebound Marshall. Our central midfield is little short of woeful at present and neither Ledley, Rae, McPhail, Taiwo or Scimeca would be playing in the majority of Championship clubs given their current form.

A result is hugely important tonight, but so is the performance. The Bluebirds were booed off the pitch following a dire showing against QPR and must show far more ambition, endeavour and resolve than in previous outings. We have been dealt plenty of bad luck, injuries to Etuhu, McCormack and McNaughton have been unfortunate but the players owe a performance tonight - and they know it.

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