SHOCK EXIT FOR REID AS TRANSFER WINDOW CLOSES
BLUEBIRDS star Bobby Reid was a shock departure on a frantic final day of the transfer window at Cardiff City Stadium yesterday.
The departure of Reid, perhaps the Bluebirds’ best player, will come as a huge blow to Cardiff fans. However, it is understood Reid wanted to leave, feeling his style of play doesn’t suit the tactics Neil Warnock plans to adopt in the Championship this season.
Fulham confirmed the seasonlong loan move for Reid despite early suggestions pointing to a permanent move of around £10m,.
But that fee will now only be paid at the end of the season should the Cottagers wish to keep him.
The terms of the move are complicated, although it’s understood that Reid is prevented from facing the Bluebirds this season.
The forward’s departure was arguably been the biggest headline of Cardiff’s deadline day, with former club Bristol City, who only sold Reid to Cardiff last summer, initially credited with an interest on Wednesday evening.
However, the Robins ended their pursuit in light of Fulham’s advances.
But Reid’s exit was offset by the arrival of two players into Warnock’s squad.
Warnock bolstered his midfield options with the capture of Bristol City veteran Marlon Pack, who has made almost 250 appearances for the Ashton Gate club.
The 28-year old signed a threeyear deal at the club and joins for an undisclosed fee.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Pack said: “It’s been a quick turnaround but I’m delighted to be here.”
“Obviously, as a former Bristol City player, I know it’s a tough place to come - I never got a result here.”
Boss Warnock added that Pack’s arrival could help to fill the gap left by the departed Aron Gunnarsson, and give Cardiff the midfield general many believe was missing during the defeat to Wigan on the opening day.
“He’s the leader we’ve been looking for now since we knew Gunnars was leaving,” Warnock said.
Pack’s arrival followed that of Birmingham striker Isaac Vassell, who penned a three-year deal to join the Bluebirds.
With the revolving door still spinning in the Welsh capital, defender Greg Cunningham left to team up with Blackburn Rovers on loan, while it is expected midfielder Loic Damour will join Scottish side Hearts.
■ Why City let Reid go: Pages
54&55