Cardiff City have confirmed the signing of Tommy Doyle on loan from Manchester City until the end of the season.
Cardiff have been crying out for a point of difference in central midfield and it is hoped the exciting midfielder can bring that in the second half of the season.
Doyle spent the first half of the campaign on loan at Hamburg but was restricted to only six league appearances, all of which came from the bench.
It was therefore thought it was in the best interest of both Doyle and Manchester City for the 20-year-old to secure a move elsewhere, where he would receive more game-time. And Cardiff, it seems, is the perfect place for him to take his next steps.
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City boss Steve Morison added: “He’s someone we earmarked and somebody we believe can really help us, so we’re really pleased to get it over the line.
“I’ve had really good reports. He has captained at every youth level with England and did the same with Manchester City. He comes from a family of football legends as well. We’ve been entrusted by Man City to take one of their players and get him some experience. It works well for both parties.
“He’s an excellent player and one I think the fans will really enjoy watching.”
Doyle, who will wear the No.22, said: “I’m very happy. The lads have been brilliant and welcomed me into the group.
“It is an exciting move and it is good for my development. I’m looking forward to the challenges ahead. Hopefully we can jump up the table. I’ve heard a lot about the fans and I’m excited to play in front of them.
“I’m here to learn, help the team, and to add goals and assists too.”
Cardiff's midfield has been a source of frustration for many Bluebirds fans, with so little go-forward and creativity coming from the middle of the park so far this season.
At the beginning of the campaign, that was down to a rather primitive style of football, however now under Steve Morison the midfielders have more of an influence on proceedings and that is where Doyle comes in.
It is hoped the young midfielder, who has made seven senior appearances for his parent club, can add that creative spark in Cardiff's new-look system.
The England Under-21 international is also more than useful from dead-ball situations, an asset which should not be overlooked given Cardiff's prowess at the set piece.
He becomes the Bluebirds' second signing of the winter following the loan arrival of Cody Drameh from Leeds United.
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