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Tom Coleman

Cardiff City news amid major South Wales derby injury blow and Aston Villa loanee backed for move

Here’s your round-up of all the latest Cardiff City headlines for Sunday, March 26.

O’Dowda suffers injury blow

Republic of Ireland boss Stephen Kenny has confirmed that Cardiff City star Callum O’Dowda has been ruled out of the upcoming Euro 2024 qualifier with France.

The Bluebirds man has pulled up with a suspected groin injury, and the decision to call up Robbie Brady has only emphasised the level of concern around his condition.

READ MORE: Three European teams in fight for Aston Villa star after tearing it up on loan at Cardiff City

Confirming the news, Kenny said: “Callum O’Dowda has picked up a groin strain so Robbie Brady joined the squad last night.”

The news will likely spark anxiety in the Welsh capital. O’Dowda has been one of City’s brighter performers in recent weeks, and will have likely been a part of Sabri Lamouchi’s plans ahead of what could be a crucial run of games.

The Bluebirds return to action on Saturday in the South Wales derby, against a Swansea side that have won each of the last three meetings between the two teams.

Philogene backed for Euro move

Gabby Agbonlahor says Jaden Philogene’s should consider a move to Europe once his loan spell with Cardiff City comes to an end.

After an inconsistent start, the 20-year-old has impressed under Sabri Lamouchi, and his form has caught the eye of admirers elsewhere. Recent reports have linked the forward with moves to both RC Lens and Anderlecht.

And, citing the example of Jadon Sancho, former Villa striker Agbonlahor believes a move to Europe may well be the best move for the youngster’s career.

“If he can get another loan out to Europe, it could be a good option.

“We’ve seen how it can really help players to go to another country and play at the top level there. It’s a different challenge to the Championship.

“He should want to test himself, and I think it’s perfect.

“We’ve seen how it has helped the likes of Jadon Sancho, and now Balogun from Arsenal.

“I think it could well be his best chance of getting in this Villa side.”

Fulton - Swans know what derby means

Jay Fulton says Swansea City know exactly what the South Wales derby means to the club’s fans.

The Swans head to the Cardiff City Stadium following the international break for a highly anticipated derby day clash.

And the midfielder has warned the Bluebirds his side don’t need to be reminded of the fixture’s importance.

“I think it is a game that takes care of itself in terms of mentality, you don’t need to build it up because we know what is at stake and what it means,” he said.

“It’s a good game to be looking forward to after the international break.

“To be going into it on the back of the win over Bristol City is massive for us. Hopefully we can take a bit of confidence into that game.

“From there we want to be able to go on and finish the season well.”

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