Posted by Betfair's View

Betfair Blogger, Tom Mallows-

FA Cup finalists in 2008 Cardiff will go into this year's competition with a much better squad than they had two years ago when they lost to Portsmouth in the final. Craig Bellamy's arrival at his boyhood club has given the Welsh club a new lease of life and the future is looking bright at the Cardiff City Stadium.

Those looking at betting odds FA Cup wise will note how Cardiff's record in the FA Cup is pretty decent. Although they haven't lifted the trophy since 1927, they have performed well in recent years. Since they reached the final they have gone as far as the fourth round the following year, where they forced Arsenal into a replay before losing 4-0 at The Emirates Stadium. Last season saw Cardiff reach the fifth round where they lost to eventual winners Chelsea 4-1 at Stamford Bridge.

With the new Malaysian owners bringing stability to the club, after Peter Risdale left his unforgettable stain on another football club, Cardiff look a good bet to secure promotion to the Premiership this season. The Welsh club are currently one of the front runners in the Championship and have been without the injured Bellamy for much of the new season. They have managed to keep most of their key players along with strengthening the squad with proven top flight quality. Along with Bellamy, midfielders Seyi Olofinjana, Jason Koumas, defender Chris Riggott and Wolves striker Andy Keogh have all joined Cardiff on loan deals. The new additions give the Welsh club one of the strongest squads outside the Premiership.

Although Cardiff boss Dave Jones's main aim this season will be promotion from the Championship and being able to compete in Premiership Betting next year, he will also be keen for a good cup run. The club could really use the money a good run would bring in. Although Man City are still paying most of Bellamy's wages, Cardiff are still shelling out a pretty penny for their star attraction.