Ashford won't be sent out on loan - Riza

Cardiff City manager Omar Riza says Cian Ashford won't be sent out on loan after his recent impressive performances.

The 20-year-old forward has scored two goals in his last two games - the 1-0 win against Sheffield United in the FA Cup and the 1-1 draw against Watford in the Championship.

The Wales Under-21 international has started the last five games for the Bluebirds, and has been instrumental in their recent unbeaten run.

"There was talk of it [going out on loan] because we have to try and help the player, and sometimes with a loan they gain experience and confidence," said Riza.

"He's stepping up a level now which is what I wanted.

"Potentially he was going to go out on loan, but now he won't be."

Ashford caught the eye last season when he scored an injury time winner for Cardiff in a 2-1 win against soon to be promoted Southampton.

He was used mostly as a substitute earlier on this season, but was given his chance in the first team following the 3-2 defeat at Oxford United.

Riza believes Ashford has matured as a player, and has learned how to deal with certain things which used to affect his performances.

"He's a quiet lad. He's a humble boy. He works really hard," Riza added.

"He lets things get on top of him sometimes and we've had lots of conversations with him.

"It's really important for us as staff and coaches to recognise when players are in those moments to help them, because there could have been times this season where he could have crumbled.

"There's been a couple of games where he wasn't comfortable on the pitch, and you recognise that and you take him out and don't allow him to do that again."