The Portuguese midfielder had been an ever-present in the Championship this season until his red card at Southampton last weekend, which ruled him out of the midweek win at Bristol City.
Semedo should slot back into the midfield after completing his one-match ban, although Therry Racon can count himself unfortunate if he makes way following a promising full league debut at Ashton Gate.
Striker Chris Iwelumo will be patched up once more to lead the line, having scored the stoppage-time winner in midweek despite a wrist injury and a black eye.
Fellow forward Luke Varney was a half-time substitute against City and will push for a recall.
Matt Holland (calf) is close to fitness but Ben Thatcher (knee), Chris Powell (ankle), Cory Gibbs (foot) and Svetoslav Todorov (cruciate) are all out.
Cardiff boss Dave Jones has injury worries over Trevor Sinclair and Paul Parry.
Sinclair is set to undergo a late fitness test after sustaining a jarred knee in the 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace on Tuesday, but he is expected to feature.
Fellow midfielder Parry also picked up a knock during the clash at Ninian Park but should be in contention.
Steve MacLean is pushing for a starting place after making a full recovery from his knee problem, although Jones is expected to keep faith with Robbie Fowler and Jimmy-Floyd Hasselbaink in attack.
Kasper Schmeichel is set to continue in goal following his loan move from Manchester City, but Riccardo Scimeca remains sidelined with a long-term knee injury.