Cardiff still have room to make free agent signing

Cardiff City boss Omer Riza says the Bluebirds have given themselves wiggle room for if they decide to try and sign any free agents.

The Bluebirds left Raheem Conte, recalled from a loan at Woking, out of their EFL 25-man squad list despite being unable to send him out on another loan.

Cardiff only named 24 players in their squad list and Riza says that was a deliberate move.

“We wanted to keep spaces open in case we had to bring in any free players in an emergency, in case anything happens to anybody,” Riza explained.

“Raz (Conte) knew that when he came back in. It’s been difficult for him, he’s been working hard and playing for the under-21s.”

Riza says he is not actively targeting the free agent market, but is keeping his options open with Cardiff only two points clear of the Championship relegation zone.

“I am not looking now. I’m happy with what we’ve got at the minute, but I always feel if you get through March, April and potentially there is a player who could come in and cover an area, I think it’s important to leave that open,” he said.

One player who could yet depart the Cardiff City Stadium this season is defender Jamilu Collins, who has featured only three times for the Bluebirds this term.

The 30-year old was linked with a departure in January and Riza has hinted he could still leave with an agreement on terminating his deal potentially in the future.

“If every window closes around the world, he will either look to stay or some sort of agreement will be made,” Riza added.