Riza's Cardiff reign looks likely to continue

Cardiff City are prepared to return to action after the international break with interim manager Omer Riza still at the helm.

Riza has been in charge at the Championship club since the dismissal of Erol Bulut last month.

Cardiff are currently sifting through applications for their vacant manager's job with a variety of names touted as possible permanent successors to Bulut.

Former Plymouth and Stoke manager Steven Schumacher, ex-Croatia boss Slaven Bilic, Charlton's Nathan Jones - a boyhood Bluebirds fan - and current Reading manager Ruben Selles have been linked with the role.

But with the process of cutting down the field not yet complete, Riza looks increasingly likely to be in charge after the international break.

Cardiff, propping up the Championship table with just five points, return to league action against Wayne Rooney’s Plymouth Argyle at the Cardiff City Stadium on October 19.

Three days later they entertain Portsmouth in what looks a huge game given that Pompey also have five points and are currently one place above Cardiff on goal difference.

Riza has been at the helm for three games, starting with a 4-1 defeat at Hull City. He oversaw Cardiff’s first league win of the campaign, against Millwall, before last Sunday's 1-1 draw at Bristol City.

Former Watford coach Riza, who joined Cardiff's staff in the summer, has steadied the ship and has been responsible for a more attacking approach.

He has made no secret of the fact he would like to be appointed permanently and said he was “hopeful” that would happen.

Cardiff’s hierarchy must decide whether they want an experienced boss at the helm or a younger coach with potential.

The Welsh club are seeking their 12th permanent manager in 14 years under Vincent Tan's ownership.

Riza has done his reputation no harm during his spell in charge and though things could change in the next few days, time is running out to appoint a permanent successor to Bulut ahead of the Championship's resumption.

Riza, meanwhile, has said on social media, external how grateful he is to have been given a chance to lead Cardiff.

Riza referred to the “sacrifices” required to succeed, including the fact “people around you miss so much of your time”.

He added: “Hardship and adversity makes us who we are in the relentlessness to be the best for those around us to have the moments they deserve.

“I am grateful for this opportunity that I have been given by the owner, club, players, staff and fans whatever the outcomes.”