MALKY HAS EYES ON A POSITIVE START

City and the Terriers kick off the 2012/13 campaign ahead of the rest of the division who play Saturday afternoon - and the Cardiff gaffer has called for preparations to be put into practice.

"We're really looking forward to it. It's what we've been planning for since the last day of last season, so we're delighted to get it started", Malky began.

"Our pre-season planning has gone well. My squad needs to be thickened up but, with the group that we've got here, I'm really looking forward to getting them onto the pitch on Friday night.

"We've got a bit of depth of international experience, two or three experienced players have come in and we've got a lot of young potential which I think is good for the club long term.

"It's great that we've got a home game to start too. But Huddersfield are a team that have got financial backing, a bit of momentum going and a manager in Simon Grayson that knows the division well.

"It's going to be a really tough game for us but I'm really looking forward to it."

Captain Mark Hudson reiterated his Manager's sentiments, adding: "We've had a really good pre-season so far, but you can never really tell where you're at until the season kicks off.

"What is for sure though is that everyone in that dressing room is raring to go. We're going to be fully tested on Friday - Huddersfield will be wanting to get off to a good start - but we've got to be ready for that.

"It's good that we're at home, but it's going to be a tough game and we're not going to underestimate Huddersfield at all. I watched (Jordan) Rhodes last night score as well (for Scotland) so he'll be wanting to get his Championship season underway with goals.

"We're going out there wanting a win though. We'll want three points and to stamp our authority on the league from the off. The main aim with everyone in the club and the staff is promotion and that's what we're going for this year."