In the days after parting ways with Erol Bulut, Cardiff’s hierarchy were being judged for not having a long-term successor in place at a time when they were cut adrift at the bottom of the table.
However, that has since proven to be an inspired decision with Omer Riza having guided the Bluebirds on a five-match unbeaten streak either side of the international break.
Three wins and two draws have been accumulated during that period, Cardiff posting important wins over Millwall, Plymouth Argyle and Portsmouth.
Last weekend’s goalless draw at West Bromwich Albion was equally impressive given that Cardiff have not posted a Championship win on their travels since April.
While everyone will want greater stability at some point, Cardiff’s board are right to maintain their current position even though they are now one point above the drop zone.
Norwich are another team who are on a lengthy streak without defeat, Johannes Hoff Thorup’s side going seven matches without losing in the second tier.
Some momentum has been lost, however, with four draws featuring during that run, the Canaries having to valiantly fight back for shares of the spoils during their last two matches.
After a 2-2 draw at Preston North End, Norwich found their long-standing unbeaten run at Carrow Road under real threat when going 3-1 behind versus Middlesbrough.
Nevertheless, two goals in the final 19 minutes earned a dramatic 3-3 draw, keeping the East Anglian outfit within one point of the playoffs.
Cardiff City Championship form:
