Here are your Cardiff City headlines for Friday, June 21.
Aaron Ramsey issues statement
Wales captain and Cardiff playmaker Aaron Ramsey has issued a statement after the FAW sacked Rob Page this morning.
The 32-year-old was installed as captain by Page after the retirement of Bale, however he, along with Page, was unable to help take Wales to this summer’s Euros. Sign up to our Cardiff City newsletter here.
That ultimately proved too damaging for Page to recover from and after a dismal draw against Gibraltar and heavy defeat by Slovakia earlier this month, the manager has been relieved of his duties.
But Ramsey took to social media to express his thanks to Page with a class message, writing: “It has been a journey we can all be proud of from the euros to taking Wales to a World Cup for the first time since 58.
“I personally just want to thank you for all you have done for me. You have been a privilege to work with, a gentleman and true family man.
“Myself and the team will forever be grateful for your guidance. These past few years are years we will treasure. Thank you, Rambo.”
Colwill told to stay put
Former England midfielder Carlton Palmer has urged Rubin Colwill to stay Cardiff and continue his development.
Manager Erol Bulut revealed at the end of last season that Premier League clubs had taken a look at the Wales playmaker and that he was one of the most valuable assets at the club.
City fans will be desperate to keep hold of him, while City’s board will not let him go unless a huge offer is tabled – particularly after he signed a new and improved contract last season.
And speaking to Football League World, former Sheffield Wednesday and Leeds United man Palmer said: “The expectation is that Colwill will stay where he is for now, the attacking midfield player didn’t have the most productive of campaigns last time, only providing three combined goals and assists in 36 league appearances.
“But that can be caveated because he only started 14 of those matches, and played an average of 45 minutes per game.
“He is a talented player, and Cardiff will be aiming to hold on to him. It’s better (for him) to stay and continue his education at Cardiff City.”
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Bluebirds draw Afan Lido in cup
Cardiff are set to face Afan Lido in the first round of the Nathaniel MG Cup, with the match scheduled for Friday, July 19 at 7.30pm at the Lido Ground.
Originally, the Bluebirds were drawn as the hosts for the tie, but have agreed with the Cymru South team to reverse the fixture, a decision, Cardiff say, which aligns with their aim of diversifying matchday experiences for player development and to foster relationships with local clubs.
The switch is also expected to draw a larger crowd and provide a financial boost to Afan Lido, who now have former Bluebirds under-21s boss and ex-City player Andy Legg on their coaching staff.
In the previous season’s competition, Cardiff’s U21 side, entering as a wild card, triumphed over Cambrian & Clydach Vale in the first round. This was followed by a 4-0 victory against Haverfordwest County, thanks to Cian Ashford’s four-goal haul.
However, the Bluebirds were narrowly defeated by fellow wild card entry Swansea City in the third round at the Swansea.com Stadium in September 2023.
McCormack backs Scotland
Former Cardiff City striker Ross McCormack has expressed optimism about Scotland’s performance in Euro 2024, despite their shaky start. After a crushing defeat by Germany in the opening game, Steve Clarke’s team managed to secure a 1-1 draw against Switzerland on Wednesday night.
Speaking to the BBC, McCormack, who earned 13 caps for Scotland, suggested there is room for improvement ahead of their final group match against Hungary on Sunday. “Last night was a lot better than Friday night, as the result suggests,” he said, adding, “But I still think there’s more to come from this team, from what I have seen in the qualifying campaign. I am hoping they can put on an even better show on Sunday night and go into the knockout stages.”
The 37-year-old, who scored 30 goals for Cardiff between 2008 and 2010 and remains a fan favourite, also played for Rangers, added: “If Scotland turn up and play to their potential, there’s no reason why they can’t get the three points,” he concluded.