Cardiff trio in contention for south Wales derby return

Cardiff City could be boosted by the return of as many as three senior players for Saturday's derby against Swansea City.

Top scorer Callum Robinson is back from suspension and midfielder Manolis Siopis has recovered from illness.

Both are expected to be in the Bluebirds' squad on the weekend, and there is a chance winger Anwar El Ghazi could feature after his return from a hip injury was delayed by illness.

"His illness knocked him, a bit of weight loss," said Cardiff manager Omer Riza.

"He's training, back in with the group. It [Swansea game] might be a bit too early for him but he's trained today [Thursday].

"Sio was unwell so we couldn't have him in the squad. He's trained today so he'll be up for selection."

Siopis only missed Tuesday's 1-1 draw with Watford, but El Ghazi has not played since 26 December, while Robinson was suspended for the past three games following his red card against Coventry on New Year's Day.

Long-term absentees include midfielders Aaron Ramsey and David Turnbull – who are not expected back until March and April, respectively – defender Ronan Kpakio and forward Isaak Davies.

Davies, who spent last season on loan at KV Kortrijk in Belgium, has not played yet in this campaign because of a hamstring injury.

"Isaak's training well, looking sharp," said Riza.

"He needs to complete more training sessions and minutes with the Under-21s before we can unleash him. Hopefully next couple of [Under-21s] games he could get some minutes."