NEIL HAS GIVEN ME BELIEF TO SHINE – KADEEM
KADEEM HARRIS is thriving for the first time in his Cardiff City career and is in no doubt as to the reason why – manager Neil Warnock.
Having had loan spells with Brentford and Barnsley since joining the Bluebirds in 2012, the midfielder is finally enjoying a run in the first-team, having made 25 appearances before the weekend.
The 23-year-old’s performances perhaps reached their zenith in midweek as he netted twice in a 4-3 victory over Derby County at Pride Park.
Warnock took over at Cardiff in October and Harris claims it’s refreshing to work for a boss who truly has faith in him.
“I think he’s the first manager that’s come to the club who’s actually shown real belief in me,” said Harris.
“Even if I don’t have the best of games, he’ll pull me aside and sometimes I might even start the next one. I don’t think I’ve had that before.
“I’m just thankful now that I could repay him against Derby. With him showing that belief in me, it’s given me a lot of confidence.”
As Harris now shows his worth to the Bluebirds on a weekly basis, Warnock insists there is no real secret to ensuring the ex-Wycombe man flourishes.
“I have given him confidence, really,” said Warnock. “He’s always been a threat.
“He’s not just the icing on the cake going forward. He defends well, too. In a team performance you have to do that. We haven’t got the space to carry anybody. The wide players have to work hard and they are.”
Harris acknowledges the defensive aspect was a key focus from Warnock.
“As soon as he came in, that was one of the things we worked on,” added Harris. “I’ve improved a lot in the last couple of months, but there’s always room for more.”