Former Robins skipper Pack to leave Bluebirds

FORMER Bristol City captain Marlon Pack will be released from Cardiff at the end of his contract.

The 31-year-old midfielder announced his departure with on social media to end his three-year spell in Wales, having made 107 appearances since he left the Robins. Pack’s exit comes as little surprise, having fallen out of favour under manager Steve Morrison. His last league appearance for Cardiff came against Nigel Pearson’s side in Bristol City’s 3-2 victory over their rivals on January 22.

Pack, pictured, wrote on Instagram: “My time Cardiff has come to an end, I’ll be forever grateful for the opportunity to play for the club. I want to thank the fans for all your support over the past three seasons, especially during the pandemic and this season where it hasn’t gone how we all wanted.

“Special mention to all my team-mates, the members of staff, the managers I’ve worked under and the numerous people I’ve crossed paths with in and around the football club. I’ve made some great friends and met some fantastic people and that’s what football is all about. Enjoy your summer and all the best in the future... Packy.” Pack spent six eventful years at Ashton Gate before his surprise move to Cardiff on summer deadline day in 2019, and was part of the side which lifted the double in the 2014-15 campaign, winning the League One title and the Football League Trophy.

A popular figure among the Bristol City faithful, whether the club ever truly replaced his defensive qualities in front of the backline remains up for debate but it’s certainly an area Pearson will have a close eye on solving during the summer.

Pack isn’t the only former Robin to be looking for a new club. Swansea announced last week that Korey Smith won’t be retained beyond this summer, following his departure from BS3 at the end of the 2019-20 season.

Cardiff’s former Bristol City centre-back Aden Flint is also out of contract at the end of June with no indication as to whether a new deal is on the table.

Morrison’s side finished the season one spot below City in 18th spot and, like Pearson, the manager wants to use the opportunity to develop his squad.

Midfielders are likely to be towards the top of Pearson’s transfer wishlist.