Perry Ng believes Cardiff City can "surprise a lot of teams" this season under new head coach Brian Barry-Murphy, with the defender setting his sights on a play-off push. The 30-year-old right-back is preparing for another Championship campaign after the Bluebirds bounced straight back into the second tier following relegation.
Ng's Optimism Under New Manager
Speaking to The Straits Times while on a trip to Singapore, Ng hailed Barry-Murphy's impact. "He's changed the culture and feeling at the club and I've learnt so much from him," Ng said. "He's so detailed, he's very positive and energetic, he knows exactly what he wants, and there's no miscommunication."
Ng added: "Our team is very young, and I feel like we can surprise a lot of teams. Hopefully, we can fight for at least a spot in the play-offs." The defender is currently in Singapore awaiting the outcome of his citizenship application to represent the Singapore national team, reconnecting with his roots.
Personal Milestone: Engagement
Away from football, Ng announced his engagement to long-term partner Lucy Owen. He proposed in Singapore, saying: "I've always wanted to do this in Singapore because it feels special to me. It's an unbelievable place and I just thought this was the right opportunity." Teammates including Ryan Wintle, Yousef Salech, and others congratulated the couple.
Training Base Refurbished
Cardiff City have completed refurbishments at their Hensol training base ahead of pre-season on Monday. Head coach Brian Barry-Murphy oversaw improvements including a refurbished gym and new motivational signage. The work is seen as key to creating a positive environment for Barry-Murphy's first full pre-season.
The club remains committed to a purpose-built training ground, but plans have been delayed by over a year due to relegation to League One and reduced cash flow. Promotion back to the Championship is expected to revive the project, with Cardiff prioritizing financial stability before construction resumes.
Transfer Target Rocco Shein
Reported Cardiff target Rocco Shein has admitted a move to the Championship would be "an exciting step." The Estonia international, 22, currently plays for Fredrikstad in Norway and is under contract for two-and-a-half years. Sources have downplayed Cardiff's interest to WalesOnline, but Shein acknowledged speculation: "I have only heard of interest from England. It would have been an exciting step for sure."
Shein, valued between £2.5 million and £4.2 million, has won 25 caps for Estonia. Cardiff have already added Nathan Trott permanently this summer as Barry-Murphy prepares for his first Championship season.
Ex-Premier League Star on Recruitment
Former Premier League midfielder Robert Snodgrass believes Cardiff's success hinges on summer recruitment. "It is all about recruitment for me," Snodgrass told talkSPORT BET. "They need to recruit players through the summer who can adapt quickly to the Championship level, because it is a very tough league."
Snodgrass praised Barry-Murphy's promotion from League One and highlighted key fixtures, including the South Wales derby and an opening-day clash with Wrexham. "There are a lot of new derbies coming back to the fold this season. I am sure that with a manager of his experience, they will find a way."
