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Tom Coleman

What Cardiff City's much-changed best XI now look likes after hectic January transfer window

Cardiff City have emerged from the other side of an eventful transfer window - and attention now turns back to matters on the pitch.

The Bluebirds set themselves up for deadline day with a fine win over Nottingham Forest at the weekend, a game that saw Alfie Doughty and Jordan Hugill make their debuts, the latter netting a well-taken opener.

Uche Ikpeazu is the other addition to Steve Morison's ranks since then, while Kieffer Moore has followed a quartet of youngsters in heading for the exit door.

Losing Moore is unquestionably a massive blow, but there's now a real feeling among some fans that Morison's squad is better balanced and more well prepared for what is a crucial second half of the season.

Here's how City could now line up.

Alex Smithies

Nothing against Dillon Phillips, but Smithies is surely one of the first names on the team-sheet at the moment. Has done little to see his place between the sticks come under question.

Cody Drameh

Has looked a little shaky at times, but on the whole has already adapted to the rigours and demands of the Championship. The Leeds loanee has offered an injection of pace and athleticism down the right-hand side. Linked up nicely with Tommy Doyle in Cardiff's win over Forest and already looks a little more confident than predecessor Perry Ng.

Perry Ng

Despite the above assessment, Ng has really given Morison something to think about after his superb showing at the weekend. A few eyebrows were raised when it emerged the former Crewe skipper was playing an unfamiliar role on the right-hand side of a three, but it was a assessment he handled brilliantly. Certainly an option that deserves to be explored further.

Sean Morrison

There's perhaps a case for Aden Flint or even Curtis Nelson here. Morrison's critics will argue that the skipper is no longer up to the task, but he does bring some much-needed leadership to Cardiff's defensive line, and also offers a valuable aerial presence at each end of the pitch.

Mark McGuinness

The Irish international has been Cardiff's best defender this season. Perhaps not quite as comfortable on the ball as Morison would like at times, but few would really argue against his inclusion.

Alfie Doughty

Has clearly been brought in to replace Ryan Giles at left-wing back. A big task given the level of creativity the Wolves loanee brought to the table. Unless Morison diverts away from the wing back system, it's difficult to really see Doughty not playing in this XI.

Joe Ralls

With the transfer window done, the questions over a new contract will surely continue to grow, such has been the midfielder's form. Has emerged as a key player for the Bluebirds in recent weeks. A shoo-in.

Ryan Wintle

Has been very solid since his return from Blackpool. Adds some much needed steel in the middle of the park, doing the ugly things nicely. Probably won't get too much exuberant praise such is the nature of his role, but is nevertheless showing that he could be an important cog in this team.

Tommy Doyle

Without getting too carried away, the last two games suggest the youngster might well be the most talented footballer at the club right now. The Manchester City loanee has already emerged as an integral part of Morison's plans, and is already a big hit with City fans. Talented on the ball, his delivery is simply outstanding, and he's exactly the sort of creative spark needed to help drag Cardiff away from the relegation mire.

Jordan Hugill

Off to a flyer against Forest. Brings with him a decent level of pedigree at this level, despite a tricky last couple of seasons. Does he have enough about him to replace Moore? Jury's perhaps out on that one, but he already looks near the top of the pecking order up front. Clearly feels he has a point to prove, which may well add fuel to his determination to make his time in South Wales a success.

Uche Ikpeazu/Rubin Colwill/Isaak Davies

This is a place that is up for greater debate. Many want to see Rubin Colwill handed a number 10 role given his obvious ability, but there's clearly still some uncertainty over the Welshman's ability to produce the goods week in, week out at his tender age.

Others feel the pace, direct running and creativity of Isaak Davies is a must for the team.

If Morison goes for a two up front, there's also an argument for Max Watters following his recent loan recall, while James Collins is surely going to play some role. However, given the positive impression he made with Wycombe last season, it seems likely that Ikpeazu may well drafted into Morison's best XI.

Subs

Dillon Phillips - Looks set to continue waiting patiently behind Smithies, but is a more than capable deputy.

Rubin Colwill - Recently been left out of Morison's plans, but his talent is there for all to see.

Isaak Davies - Similarly held in high regard. Has been restricted to a role off the bench in recent weeks.

Will Vaulks - Performances have improved of late, but he's still struggled to reach previous heights. Perhaps a fight for first team contention might do him some good.

James Collins - As above. Has his critics, but there have been some green shoots of promise in recent weeks, including a well taken goal against Bristol City.

Max Watters - One suspects the striker wouldn't have been brought back to simply keep the bench warm. May yet have a role to play.

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