DERBY DATE SO VITAL FOR OMER

Interim boss has chance to boost bid

- Chris Dunlavy

OMER Riza will lead his team over the Severn Bridge to face Bristol City this afternoon aiming to put a smile on the face of Cardiff's owner Vincent Tan.

For the Bluebirds' interim boss, however, there is much more at stake than derby bragging rights, three points and the chipper demeanour of the man who pays his wages.

Since replacing the sacked Erol Bulut two weeks ago, Riza has made no secret of the fact that he wants the job on a permanent basis.

He was at it again this week, arguing that if Cardiff want a youthful prospect in the dugout then they already have their man.

"In my mind, you ask these questions and you think to yourself, 'Well if you're going to bring someone in who is around my age, then there is no point in looking any further," said the 44-year-old, who spent a brief period in charge at Leyton Orient before taking up coaching roles with Watford and England Under-16s.