Purse sets sight on Premiership

Last updated : 07 July 2006 By Michael Morris

Amid all the chopping and changing that is currently going on at Cardiff City there remains one constant - the defensive rock that is captain Darren Purse.

Throughout a tough first season at Ninian Park, the former West Brom and Birmingham City centre-half emerged as a beacon of leadership and reliability as the Bluebirds flirted with the play-offs.

Now he has a new focus - Barnsley at Oakwell on August 5 at 3pm.

Though before he reaches the season's opener, Purse must go through what he admits is his least favourite time of the year, albeit as a member of a squad which he believes is fitter and stronger than it has ever been since he came to the club.

'Pre-season training arrgh!,' said Purse, after I asked him how preparations are going."

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