Sheff Weds v Cardiff. Early team news

Last updated : 02 May 2009 By Michael Morris

The Bluebirds need just a point at Hillsborough to be sure of a play-off place, while anything less than victory for Preston at home to QPR will also be enough.

If Cardiff lose and Preston win then the Welsh outfit would more than likely still claim a top-six finish on goal difference if Burnley fail to beat Bristol City.

Following three successive victories, Cardiff have picked up just one point from a possible last nine, conceding 11 goals in the process. And it will be in defence where Jones will most likely consider changes.

Club captain Darren Purse could be recalled in place of Gabor Gyepes at centre-back, while Riccy Scimeca may also feature. Quincy Owusu-Abeyie, Stephen McPhail, Peter Whittingham and Michael Chopra are all also pressing for recalls. Tom Heaton should keep his place in goal.

Influential midfielder Joe Ledley has also emerged as a doubt due to a hamstring injury but he will be given every chance to prove his fitness.

Wednesday defeder Frank Simek could be given a rare run-out.

Simek has been restricted to only six appearances this term due to a succession of injuries and missed last week's draw at Bristol City with a thigh muscle strain.

But the American full-back could sign off in front of what is expected to be the Championship's biggest crowd of the season against Cardiff, who require a point to secure a play-off place.

Manager Brian Laws has no new injury or suspension problems as his side bid to end the season in the top half of the table.

Francis Jeffers is expected to partner Leon Clarke up front, with leading goalscorer Marcus Tudgay in a wide midfield role, while Laws must decide between Etienne Esajas and Jermaine Johnson on the other wing.

Sporting Life