Cardiff City

Danny Gabbidon 'surprised' by Cardiff City return

By Daniel Lewis, Senior Reporter | 02 September 2014

Cardiff City defender Danny Gabbidon admits that he is 'surprised' to have rejoined the club following nine years away from South Wales.

Danny Gabbidon has insisted that he is raring to go having secured a move back to former club Cardiff City.

The 35-year-old, who was released by Crystal Palace at the end of last season, joined the Bluebirds yesterday on a one-year deal.

Gabbidon spent five years at Cardiff before signing for West Ham United in 2005, and admits that he did not think a return was on the cards.

"At the end of last week the manager began to mention about coming on-board, and maybe getting involved a little bit with the coaching as well as playing," the Wales international told the club's official website. "That was a little bit of a surprise at the time, but it was an exciting offer.

"I thought about it for a few days and I decided that it was a great opportunity for me to take. I'm delighted to be back here at Cardiff City. The lads have started the season really well – we've got off to a good start and we've played well defensively, so it looks like it's going to be quite tough for me to get in there and play!

"But, if I get that opportunity soon then it would be great. I'll work very hard, get myself up to speed and wait for my chance – if that comes, it would be a great moment for me."

Cardiff also secured the services of Lorient centre-back Bruno Manga on transfer deadline day.