Brian Barry-Murphy has revealed that Cardiff City owner Vincent Tan is “energised” by the club’s future as the Bluebirds continue working to strengthen their squad ahead of their Championship return. Cardiff are yet to make a new external signing this summer, although goalkeeper Nathan Trott has completed a permanent move after impressing during last season’s promotion-winning campaign.
Lack of transfers raises questions
The lack of business so far has prompted questions over the club’s plans, particularly after Barry-Murphy’s side were beaten 6-0 by FC Midtjylland in their opening pre-season friendly on Saturday. However, the Cardiff head coach insists he has felt nothing but support from Tan, chairman Mehmet Dalman and chief executive Ken Choo when discussing potential additions.
Summer trip to Malaysia
Barry-Murphy spent four weeks in Malaysia with Tan and his family during the summer and believes the trip gave him a valuable insight into the owner and his ambitions for Cardiff. “It was a privilege for me to visit Malaysia and learn a lot about the history of the country, the history of Vincent and what he and his people stand for,” Barry-Murphy said. “It was very enlightening for me and I am very grateful to have had that opportunity. His understanding of the team and what we did last season was beyond what I expected. He doesn’t miss a trick. He’s very clear, very honest and very direct about what he enjoyed, and he seemed really energised about what we could do moving forward.”
Debt conversion boosts finances
Tan converted £42 million of Cardiff’s debt into equity last month, significantly reducing the amount owed to the club’s majority shareholder. Barry-Murphy says the hierarchy have consistently backed his plans, provided any potential deal represents value for the club. “Whenever we can explain to him, to Mehmet and to Ken where we want to improve the squad and how we want to do it, and as long as it represents good value for the club, I’ve never felt anything other than support,” he said.
Patience urged for new signings
Cardiff are expected to add to their squad before the Championship season begins, although Barry-Murphy warned that supporters may need to be patient. “We’re very hungry and have a huge appetite to give the supporters a team they’re genuinely excited to watch again and see evolve and improve,” he said. “That will involve adding to the squad, although it’s impossible to put exact timings on deals in this transfer window, perhaps even more so than in previous years. We’re looking to move every area of the team forward. It’s not one area or another, like last season.”
Confidence in current squad
Despite his desire to make additions, Barry-Murphy remains confident the players already at his disposal can continue to develop following last season’s promotion. Cardiff’s pre-season preparations continue when they travel to face Cork City on Tuesday.
