Salech 'improving daily' after 'traumatic' injury

Brian Barry-Murphy has urged Cardiff City staff and supporters to be patient over the return of the club's top scorer Yousef Salech.

The Bluebirds boss said despite his "traumatic" neck injury the 24-year-old is "improving daily" and expected to return to light work on Thursday.

Salech required oxygen and 13 minutes of treatment on the pitch after a challenge by Stockport's Brad Hills during last Saturday's 1-1 draw at Cardiff City Stadium.

"Hopefully I get to see him for the first time today," Barry-Murphy said.

"We're going to be really considerate to what he needs, be patient and take it step by step so that after such a serious injury we can make sure he's in a really good place when he comes back."

The Danish striker underwent a number of scans up until Tuesday, with Barry-Murphy praising the "amazing" medical team overseeing his recovery.

Despite the positive updates, the head coach stressed that after such a "traumatic event" supporters and staff must give Salech time to recover properly.

"We need to not try and rush him in the early stages of recovery in our desperation to get him back," Barry-Murphy said.

Cardiff have shown they can cope without League One's third joint-highest goalscorer.

Their 4–0 demolition of Barnsley on Tuesday night not only underlined their attacking depth but also cemented their status as the league's best attacking force.

In Salech's absence, Omari Kellyman stepped up impressively with a goal and an assist, offering Barry-Murphy further encouragement.

The on-loan Chelsea forward said he now hopes he can "go on a little run" and build momentum.

Callum Robinson and Isaak Davies also offered Barry-Murphy "food for thought" prior to Saturday's trip to Burton (15:00 GMT).

The club are not seeking January reinforcements in forward areas, but may look to strengthen at full-back with Barry-Murphy stating "there are no guarantees" in the final days of the window.