Paul Caddis’ injury is not as bad a first feared and manager Lee Clark confirmed- “he could be back by Cardiff on New Year’s day, at a push”.

The defender, on loan from Swindon Town, suffered a muscle tear injury and limped off during the first half against Crystal Palace last weekend. But despite early worries of a long lay-off, he could be back in training within a fortnight.

The nightmare that has been Blues’ injury luck this term shows no signs of letting up.

Meanwhile, Jake Jervis’ loan spell at Portsmouth has been extended until 4 January 2013.