Burton Albion manager Nigel Clough says he can see Saturday’s opponents Cardiff City as promotion contenders ahead of the new season.
Nigel, son of legendary manager Brian will be in the dugout at the Pirelli Stadium on Saturday as Burton Albion begin their 2017/2001 Championship campaign at home to the Bluebirds.
Speaking to Burton Albion, the former Derby manager says due to the experience of Neil Warnock, he can see City being one of the sides up there challenging for a place in the Premier League.
“I think Cardiff have a realistic chance of pushing for promotion. Neil Warnock said at times last season that it wouldn’t take much for them to be there and thereabouts.
Last season Cardiff occupied the relegation zone in the last visit to the Pirelli Stadium, with a 2-0 defeat to Burton the final nail in the coffin for then-manager Paul Trollope. He’s not expecting the Bluebirds to be in the same position this time round.
“Twelve months ago Cardiff did struggle so he will be underlining the importance of them starting well.”
Clough who rejected the opportunity to become Nottingham Forest manager earlier this year also stressed the importance of how an opening day and believes Warnock will be eager for a win as he returns to Burton, one of the many clubs he has managed.
“His record of winning promotions is exceptional and coming back here, he will want to get off to a good start. It’s a long hard season but we all know the confidence you get from a good start.”
Cardiff last achieved promotion back in the 2012/2013 season as they won the Championship title by eight points and haven’t been tipped as promotion contenders by the bookmakers.
(Featured Image: Jon Candy)