Trust member Terry Phillips reports on last night’s meeting between fans and Cardiff City manager, Russell Slade.
Bluebirds manager Russell Slade met with more than 70 club fans and talked openly about his team, the future in terms of new signings and more.
Slade and club chief executive Ken Choo spent almost two hours chatting with supporters representing the Supporters Trust, Supporters Club, Travel Club, disabled fans and Premier members.
“I am committed to the football club, honest everything I do and will be honest with my answers,” said Slade.
Former City player Roger Gibbins was master of ceremonies and took questions from those who attended plus via a Twitter feed.
Slade was relaxed and willing to answer questions on all subjects, while he said of Cardiff’s promotion chances: “It won’t be easy coping against the likes of Derby and Middlesbrough, who spent a lot of money in the last window.
“But with a little more help, extra energy and pace, we can go close. We are certainly capable of a top six finish, no question.”
He also talked about long-serving Peter Whittingham, saying: “Whitts still has an awful lot to offer.He can make people play and makes the team tick. He’s a good player to have around the changing room and out on the pitch.”
And on Sammy Ameobi, Slade said: “When Sammy came to us there were one or two fitness issues. Unfortunately, one of things we had to address was medication.
“He is on new medication now and starting to look fresher, stronger, not struggling for his breath. He has an asthma problem, but that is being dealt with much better.”
Tommy O’Sullivan’s loan spell at Newport and his future with Cardiff was also discussed and Slade said: “I felt Tommy was stagnating a little in under-21 football and important to get him out. He is benefitting massively by playing for Newport.
“We monitor him all the time and our scouts watch them regularly. Tommy is again going in the right direction and proving a real asset for Newport. We will make our decision in January or next summer, but, make no mistake, he is a young player highly thought of at this club.”
Slade talked about the need to keep key players, including Kenwyne Jones, Aron Gunnarsson and David Marshall, saying: “It is just as important to keep good players as bring others in.”
And on negative remarks by some fans he said: “It hurts. I am firm believer if you are going be successful everybody must pull in same direction. The support at away games is magnificent, awesome. At Cardiff City Stadium that support can be hovering a little. People are waiting for things to happen.
“When fans are behind their team it makes such a big difference. It doesn’t affect me because I’m not out there, but it can affect individuals if there is negativity. It can be difficult if you feel supporters are not with you.
“Cardiff fans are a passionate bunch by nature and they can make a difference.”
