Cardiff City Squad Review (11/12): Don Cowie

A brief look at the individual contributions of all the major Cardiff City players over the course of the 2011/12 season. The 'rating` as given is not purely based on performance but more the impact that player had compared to what we could realistically have expected at the start of the year and given their own standards and reputation.


8 - Don Cowie

owie arrived as a free transfer for Malky`s former club Watford - who had expected the Scottish midfielder to sign an extension at Vicarage Road. He immediately showed why Malky had been so quick to bring him to the Bluebirds showing a phenomenal work rate, tidy passing ability and chipping in with some useful early goals.

However, Cowie`s role was a strange one and whilst putatively used in a right midfield role, he was often 'tucked-in` and performed a very narrow role, though chasing every opposition player and covering every blade of grass. Unfortunately, City were crying out for a ball carrier, pace and some genuine width and the inclusion of Cowie sometimes seemed a bit of a luxury. The goals dried up from the Scotsman and though he remained a willing runner and outlet - the overall impact was somewhat limited.

Cowie was inspirational on the huge Wembley pitch, noticing that his engine and fitness were above all others, and he carried his weary side into extra time only to fall at the final hurdle. It was a solid first season from Cowie, who was asked to fulfil a role not natural to him at times. He will surely stay at the club for next season, but with Mackay sure to add natural width, you have to wonder what position Cowie will look to make his own.

Season`s Rating: 6/10

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