Bristol City Unveil Rio Cardines: A Manager's Dream
Bristol City fans have been told that Rio Cardines' fitness and work ethic make him "a manager's dream," but the Reds have been warned their new signing will likely need some time to adapt to the Championship. The Robins unveiled Cardines, 20, as their ninth - and most recent - addition to Michael Skuabala's squad on Tuesday afternoon.
Cardines, a Trinidad and Tobago international, has made the temporary move to Ashton Gate from Crystal Palace on loan for the upcoming season. He has been playing regularly under Pierre Sage during pre-season and has impressed with his technical proficiency and set-piece expertise.
Why it matters for Bristol City
The signing of Cardines addresses the lack of an attacking, right-sided full-back in Skubala's squad, with George Tanner the only senior option at the 43-year-old's disposal. Cardines is equipped to offer cover at left-back, but may not offer the defensive solidity that his new teammate can consistently.
Cardines checks into the West Country having made a handful of first-team appearances for the Eagles, but the bulk of his football has still been played at an academy level. Patience may, therefore, be required, even if the full-back has attributes that will really appeal to Skubala. Fitness-wise, he'll do very well, and he is a manager's dream in that sense. He'll respond very well to whatever feedback and coaching is sent his way.
Bruno Collingridge's verdict
Bruno Collingridge, founder of The Palace Way and writer for the News Shopper, has seen plenty of Cardines in action and believes he has the potential to be a Premier League-level defender. He's a capable defender, but s, crossing, passing; he's an intelligent player, which shouldn't be understated.
Bristol City's new signing
Cardines has been playing in the Under-18s and has benefited from an injury to a left-back, which has given him the opportunity to shows his versatility. He's right-footed, but has played left back and right back in a back four, and has also played in the front three. He's certainly an attacking wing-back who favours the right side, has a very good cross on him, and is just generally technically proficient.
The Robins will be hoping that Cardines will be able to make an impact in the Championship, and that he will be able to adapt to the pace of the league. With his technical proficiency and set-piece expertise, he has the potential to be a valuable asset to the team. However, patience may be required, as he will need time to adjust to the level of competition in the Championship.
