Cardiff City opinion: Cardiff City have made the right move by adding Curtis Nelson

According to reports from English news outlet the BBC, Cardiff City have signed Curtis Nelson, with the Bluebirds looking to thrive in the Championship. Neil Warnock and his side had a tumultuous first season back and unfortunately failed to survive.

They finished two points behind 17^th place Brighton, who endured an end season collapse but did enough to survive. However, Cardiff City were not as lucky, following Fulham and Huddersfield back into the Championship and a fight for survival.

It could prove to be a rather troublesome year for the Bluebirds and it’s why they’ve made a smart move for Curtis Nelson. The 26-year-old is not the only incoming transfer, with the Bluebirds also completing moves for Will Vaulks and Joe Day.

Both players impressed with their respective sides, but it’s Curtis Nelson who made the biggest difference, with the 26-year-old doing well for Oxford. Arguably one of the best players, the club captain opted to leave at the end of his contract, joining Cardiff City for free.

It represents a coup for the Bluebirds. Nelson was the only player to play every single game for the League One side. The former Stoke City player has proven to be a massive fan-favourite in his three-year spell.

He struggled to make an impact last season with an Achilles tear preventing him from playing more than 20 league games. However, Nelson finished the season well, playing four out of the last five games.

Things changed this season with the 26-year-old walking in fully fit and it made the difference for Oxford United. The club finished 16^th last season, pumping that up by four places thanks to Curtis Nelson’s ever-present self.

Not just that, they lost fewer games, conceded fewer goals and finished four points ahead compared to last season. What makes Nelson perfect for Cardiff City is his impressive combination of strength, agility and defensive nuance.

The Bluebirds finished the season by conceding 69 goals, which is the fourth highest total in the Premier League. If they had maybe scored a few more goals, things would be very different but their defensive issues certainly didn’t help.

Nelson’s calming presence alongside Sean Morrison, Bruno Manga or Sol Bamba will help the club move forward. Not just that, at the age of 26, Nelson could possibly be the long-term replacement for the 34-year-old Sol Bamba.

The Cardiff City star has spent the last three years with the Bluebirds, making an average of 30 appearances a season. That is no longer feasible as proved by his last season and it’s exactly where Curtis Nelson will be able to help out.

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Conclusion

Cardiff City have a lot to improve upon if the club ever wants to move forward and with the right players and Neil Warnock at the helm, they can do just that. Cardiff City have to try and survive the Championship, which is what Curtis Nelson will hopefully help them do.