'Rae Set To Stay' Amid Cardiff City Departures

Cardiff City midfielder Gavin Rae looks likely to remain with the club through the current transfer window and until the end of the season, despite his contract expiring in June and a lack of first team opportunities.

Rae recently revealed his frustrating dilemma and was thought to be considering a move in order to safeguard his future and get more games. He did however stress that he was generally happy at the club and ideally wanted to break into the first team and help fire the club to promotion.

Whilst Dave Jones always wanted Rae to remain as experienced back-up to the central midfield area, recent events suggest he is even less likely to sanction and move away for Rae, which would likely be a free transfer. This week, Danny Drinkwater was recalled to parent club Manchester United after injury and a lack of gametime hindered his opportunities.

Additionally, promising youngster Aaron Wildig secured a loan move to Hamilton Academicals, in the SPL.

With Steven McPhail currently injured, Dave Jones will look for Rae to provide cover for the central duo of Peter Whittingham and Seyi Olofinjana. The hugely talented Aaron Ramsey has re-joined the Bluebirds, initially on a 1-month loan deal. His contribution could be key, but the young Arsenal prospect is recovering from a broken leg and will not be ready to play every game of our frantic February fixture list. Fellow youngster Darcy Blake could also be utilised as a defensive central midfielder if necessary.

Rae has been a good club servant, and a model professional since joining on a free transfer from Rangers back in 2007. He has only made two league starts this season, with 5 more appearances coming from the bench including one important outing when he sealed the 2-0 home win against Hull City earlier in the campaign. He also featured in the recent FA Cup games against Stoke City, and played a part in two creditable draws against the Premiership outfit.

Rae looks certain to leave the club over the summer, but until then he provides a wealth of experience and adequate cover. In previous years, he has been first choiceas we chased the play-offs, so to be the 4th or 5th choice now only outlines the quality of our squad and the added depth that we previously lacked and has haunted us in seasons past.

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