June
Newsfile

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'If we have a bad start to the season, then come October I won't be here.

'It will be my fault, my head on the block if results don't go well.

'Sam Hammam has spent a lot of money to bring the best players here and the fans won't accept failure.

'Expectations at Cardiff are very high - and rightly so. But some people think success is a foregone conclusion after the money we've spent. Unfortunately football is not like that.'

Cork is optimistic for the coming campaign and is pleased at the way things have progressed at Ninian Park in the build up to the season.

'I enjoy being Cardiff City manager and in Ian Butterworth and Ian Atkins I am fortunate to have quality assistants who will have a major input.

'It was a thrill to gain promotion last season and I'm relishing the fresh challenge. It's what I am good at.

'I'll always be honest with the players, the public and the press. Ill tell it as I see it. If we play badly, I'll say so.

'There's no point saying otherwise. But, hopefully, that won't happen too often.

'Looking at the fixtures, it's not the hardest of starts, although sides will put 10 men behind the ball when they come to Ninian Park.

'We have to be good enough to break them down. I'm making no predictions. The first three games against Wycombe, Peterborough and Millwall are all I'm worried about at present.

'I''ve been pleased with our preparation so far. 'The application by some players in the first pre-season game was a bit sloppy.

'They have to learn they can't just turn up when they feel like it. People who don't perform won't be in the team.

'When they get the shirt they must work hard to keep it. There are 34 players champing at the bit to get in.

'Those who start moping around because they aren't in the side will have no chance.

'But, to be fair, the attitude of all the players has been very good.

'Pre-season is all about setting standards for the rest of the season. I've made a few comments here and there, but I'm saving my temper for when the season starts.

'Winning friendly games is not the be all and all. August is when we need to start putting a good run together.'

Cork made these comments before the 4 - 0 demolition of Crystal Palace. Even after the great win he was staying level headed. Cork said.

"Everybody showed a great attitude and worked hard.

"Now we have two weeks hard work in games and training before we play Wycombe Wanderers."