Neil Warnock is feeling confident as he prepares his Bluebirds for their Premier League match at Crystal Palace on Boxing Day (3pm).
“I’m looking forward to the game,” says manager Warnock. “I have good friends there and it’s always a great atmosphere.
“We can get something from this match. Yes, we need a bit of luck and must defend well.
“Although we have a tough run of games coming up, I also don’t think there’s an easy game in the Premier League, full stop.
“We have to go into these games and do our best to come away with something.”
Warnock’s Bluebirds head into the Boxing Day clash outside of the Premier League bottom three and he says: “The one thing we can be certain of is the support will be there. Fans have been there all the time, relentlessly traveling away and they’ve been amazing.
“Despite the result, they were superb the other night against Manchester United, and I hope that they all have a nice Christmas.
“If they remember where we were and where we are now, let’s hope we can look forward to a good 2019.”
Palace manager Roy Hodgson must decide whether to keep the same starting line-up following their impressive 3-2 win at Manchester City.
Cheikhou Kouyate and Wayne Hennessey are expected to be available after injuries, while Martin Kelly’s fitness is being assessed.
Cardiff pair Joe Bennett and Jazz Richards could return from injuries, but Danny Ward remains out injured.
“We earned three fantastic points against Manchester City, but have to make certain we don’t throw them away by not doing the job Cardiff on Boxing Day.
“We need to win or waste these three bonus points.”
Cardiff midfield Harry Arter says: “This is my favourite time of the year to play.
“There’s always a good feeling around the ground and a real togetherness, no matter who we are playing. There is genuine happiness around the place.
“The away games are always going to be tough for us this season and our home form speaks volumes. The fans always cheer us on through the last few minutes of the games to help us grab those points. We’re hoping we can turn our away form around.
“We need to outwork and outperform teams like we do at home and if we can do this then we’ll definitely start picking up more points on the road.
“Crystal Palace have been an established Premier League side for a while now and we’re working towards what they have been achieving year in, year out. We have to try to take points off these kind of teams.
“Our travelling supporters have been brilliant this year. They make plenty of noise and hopefully we can give them something to cheer about over Christmas.
“Every player loves having the backing from their supporters. It’s great when the fans appreciate it when you’re giving it your all.
“They have made my stay here enjoyable so far. I always try and leave everything out on the pitch and it’s nice to see they’ve noticed that. It’s been a good relationship so far.”
Cardiff have failed to win in eight away league fixtures this season, losing seven of them.
The Bluebirds are the only side in the division not to have led at half-time this season, while Palace have been strong in the opening 45 minutes.
If Premier Division matches ended at half-time Palace would be fifth in the table on 28 points.
Kick-off times for Cardiff City’s Premier League home fixtures against AFC Bournemouth and Watford have been changed.
The Bluebirds’ home clash with AFC Bournemouth will now start at 5.30pm on Saturday, February 2 (originally scheduled 3pm).
The visit of Watford to CCS has been moved to 7.45pm on Friday, February 22 (originally scheduled for 3pm on Saturday 23rd February).
