Nat makes soar point

WINGER Nathaniel Mendez-Laing can’t wait for the new season to start so he can complete his fairytale rise to the top.

After five loan moves and two free transfers to clubs including Shrewsbury and Cambridge, the 26-year-old now hopes to star in the Premier League with top-flight new boys Cardiff.

Mendez-Laing joined the Bluebirds from League One Rochdale this time last year on a free, and his six goals helped the Welsh side win automatic promotion.

He was handed a new two-year deal for his efforts, and said: “As a little boy it was always my dream to play in the Premier League and I am very excited by the prospect of getting that opportunity.

“It has been a quick rise for me and it still catches me at times, but I’ve grabbed my opportunity with both hands. My career just shows what anyone can do, even players down in the lower leagues.

“There is a lot of talent throughout the leagues. You have to play consistently and when you get your chance, take it.”

Nothing

Mendez-Laing started at Wolves before Peterborough paid £100,000 for him in 2012. Loan spells at Portsmouth, Shrewsbury and Cambridge followed before he joined Rochdale on a free.

He cost Cardiff boss Neil Warnock nothing, and he is now hoping to get the nod for the trip to Bournemouth for their first game of the season on August 11.

He said: “The next thing for me is being fit enough to get into the starting team.” DELIGHTED: Mendez-Laing