Naylor Could Keep Cardiff City Starting Place

Cardiff City manager Malky Mackay will have consistent defender Andrew Taylor available again for tomorrow's trip to Millwall. However, despite impressing since moving to Cardiff on a free transfer over the summer - Taylor could be forced to wait beforew being restored to the side to accomdate forgotten man Lee Naylor.

Naylor endured a first season which ranged from 'difficult' to 'torrid' at differing stages of the season. He struggled with pace, positioning and confidence and failed to win over the Bluebirds fans or live up to the repuation expected of a former Wolves and Celtic player.

He has barely featured under Malky Mackay, but remains a member of the squad. There were audible groans when Naylor's name was read out last Sunday - an enforced change due to Taylor's injury. The prospect was even less appealing given City fans' intimate knowledge of the trickery, pace and potent threat of Chris Burke - a popular ex-player.

However, Naylor did a great job on Burkey, outclassing his former team-mate and completely nullifying his threat. He was desperately unlucky to be booking after a farcical decision by the referee but took his chance impeccably. It was a welcome surprise and Naylor deserves the praise and confidence he will surely gain.

It would be tough on Naylor to be dropped after his performance and given the victory and clean sheet for the Bluebirds. Mackay clearly has faith in him, turning to Naylor despite the availability of Quinn, Darcy Blake and the option of switching Kevin McNaughton to the left.

Cardiff City are riding high currently, but have a small squad and fear remain over how we can sustain early season form. However, if the various fringe players like Naylor, Mason and Gestede can continue to perform when called upon - the more established players like Miller, Taylor etc will remain fresher and hopefully able to maintain form and fitness over the entire season and hopefully promotion campaign!

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