Jay Bothroyd says outdated membership Cardiff Metropolis should intention for the Premier League following their speedy return to the Championship.
The Bluebirds will likely be again within the second tier subsequent season having bounced again from relegation in 2024-25 by profitable automated promotion from League One.
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Former striker Bothroyd reckons Cardiff are enjoying “an incredible model of soccer” below – and says relegation 12 months in the past has turned out to be a blessing.
“Seeing Cardiff go right down to League One was devastating for me however I take a look at it now as most likely an excellent factor as a result of that they had time to rebuild – new administration, new gamers,” Bothroyd advised BBC Radio Wales Breakfast.
“Now they’re again within the Championship and so they must push on as a result of Cardiff are a giant membership.
“They cannot be down on the backside of the league. They must be competing every season, whether or not it is for the play-offs to get into the Premier League or for automated promotion. That is the place Cardiff have to be.”
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Cardiff’s promotion means there will likely be six Welsh derbies within the Championship subsequent season, as they compete with Swansea Metropolis and Wrexham.
Bothroyd, who performed for the Bluebirds between 2008 and 2011, says he’ll “undoubtedly be down there supporting the boys” when Barry-Murphy’s aspect tackle arch-rivals Swansea.
“They had been the perfect occasions, enjoying within the derbies towards Swansea. It was simply huge,” stated the previous striker, who received his solely England cap whereas with Cardiff.
“Turning up at Swansea’s stadium, the ambiance within the crowd, it was unbelievable.”