Delaney puts Bluebirds rumour to bed

Former Bluebird Mark Delaney was linked with a potential move back to Ninian Park a few weeks ago but now the player has ended the speculation by pledging his future to current club Aston Villa. Delaney has also been linked to a move to Fulham where his Wales colleague Chris Coleman is the manager but it's Villa for Delaney.

'I'm only interested in preparing for the new season with Villa.

'I was on holiday when the story broke but I've read all the papers and was flattered to be linked with Cardiff.

'I've still got a lot of friends there and was chuffed to bits when they won promotion. But I'm very happy at Villa. I've got three years left on my contract and have a lot to prove to the new manager, and to myself, after last year.

'I lost so much of last season through injury and am simply looking to get myself into the Villa first team and play a full season. I'm fit now and can't wait for the new season.