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Whitley Set for Cardiff Move

Last updated : 22 June 2005 By Gary Fish

Championship club Cardiff City are today expected to clinch the signing of Northern Ireland midfielder Jeff Whitley.

OwnerSam Hammam confirmed that Whitley will be the first signing for new Bluebirds' manager Dave Jones.

Hammam said: "The chances are high that we will sign Jeff Whitley from Sunderland.

"He is a tenacious, ball-winning midfield player with a good work ethic, a no-nonsense player in the centre.

"He has been released by Sunderland and we are delighted he is joining Cardiff City.'

The 26-year old former Manchester City and Sunderland defensive midfielder is due to have a medical over the next couple of days before signing a two-year contract.

Whitley helped Sunderland to the Coca-Cola Championship title in May and he will be a great addition to the Bluebird's squad.

And while he doesn't possess the passing skills of Kav or Joe Ledley, he is a grafter and ball-winner who can add an essential ingredient to a team.

Whitley's career has seen him start 201 first team games, scoring 10 goals.