Malky Mackay has given his firm backing to David Marshall ahead of the new Premier league season. Marshall was one of City's best players last season and contributed to the impressive defensive record that saw a record number of clean sheets.
“David was the outstanding goalkeeper in the Championship last season without a shadow of a doubt,” said Mackay.
“His record really just spoke for itself. He had the most clean-sheets, that is not in question.
“I gave him goals to achieve over the last 18 months and he rose to that.
“I suppose the fact that I had him as my number one from the start gave him that extra little bit of confidence too.
“There were times right through the season when maybe just once in a game he was called upon to make the save – and he did.
“He would make a very good save for us and that is the sign of an outstanding goalkeeper.
“The rest of the time it was all about just focus and concentration, and he is great at that side of things too.”
Mackay admits that standards must be raised, not just by Marshall but by everyone in the Cardiff side.
But when it comes to his ‘keeper the Scot is convinced he will be more than capable of rising to the challenges of the top flight.
“Everyone is going to be tested that bit more next season, we are playing at a higher level after all,” said Mackay.
“I’ve got a firm belief David is going to rise to that challenge.
“He’s back in the Scotland squad again now and without a doubt he’s a Premier League goalkeeper.”