Cardiff City shock as star man released just days out from Sheffield Wednesday clash
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In a 26-word statement, the Bluebirds confirmed that the contract of Nathaniel Mendez-Laing has been terminated, with reports in South Wales claiming the decision is due to an alleged breach of contract. The club said they will make no further comment on the matter.
Cardiff boss Neil Harris confirmed to the media during pre-season that Mendez-Laing had not been involved in their preparations due to ‘personal reasons’.
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Hide AdThe 28-year-old, who has scored 14 times for Cardiff in 92 appearances, offering up 11 assists, previously played for Rochdale and Peterborough United on a permanent basis, having started out his career at Wolverhampton Wanderers. He spent a short loan spell at Wednesday’s city rivals Sheffield United back in 2011.
It represents a huge bombshell ahead of the season opener, with many having predicted a fine season for the winger.
Mendez-Laing was part of the reason Wednesday were able to sign Kadeem Harris on a free transfer last summer, having kept the Owls man out of the Cardiff side for much of their 2018/19 Premier League season.
The news comes just days after it was confirmed Cardiff midfield pair Joe Ralls and Lee Tomlin would also miss the Owls clash.
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Hide AdTomlin’s absence is a particular boost to Wednesday, with the former Brentford man having tallied-up three goals and two assists in his last six appearances against them.