The Bluebirds’ manager offended one manager and felt the need to apologise.
Omer Riza has stated that discussions on Joel Colwill’s football future must take place in the new year, but he has apologised to Cheltenham Town manager Michael Flynn, who was offended by the Cardiff City manager’s comments last week.
Colwill’s recent goal for loan club Cheltenham has increased his visibility to Bluebirds decision-makers ahead of the January window.
The midfielder, who scored in Sunday’s 5-3 defeat to Notts County, now has nine goals and three assists in 27 League Two outings, with a decision on his next steps looming. Some supporters want him to stay where he is, settled, playing well, and contributing, while others want him to move up to the next division. Some people would also prefer to see him recalled.
Last week, Riza mentioned that he would like Colwill to be recalled and sent back to a League One side or even a squad at the top end of League Two so that the Wales youth international, 20, could test himself.Subscribe to our daily Cardiff City newsletter here.
Robins manager Flynn thought it “bizarre” that Riza made such a remark without reporting it to Cheltenham. But, speaking after the 2-1 victory over Watford, Riza remains certain that Colwill should be promoted to the next level, and that decision appears to be nearing.
“Joel is performing admirably; he is a fantastic player. What is it now, nine goals? He is doing exceptionally well in League Two. “He is one of our players who we hold in high regard,” Riza stated following the Watford encounter.
“Whether he returns to the building in January is something we need to discuss. I believe he may improve more, but I regret for upsetting the manager at Cheltenham last week. It’s exactly what we need to do to help our players progress and have successful careers.
After the game, Flynn stated that his loan players would remain in place for the time being, but that he would need to speak with each of them at some point.
Colwill, when asked if he wanted to continue at Cheltenham, replied after Boxing Day: “Yes, I’m playing every minute and enjoying it.” I want to be wherever I’m playing.
“I haven’t heard anything (from Cardiff), so I am just playing football every day, coming in and giving my all.”
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