Burrows tips Bluebirds for the top flight

May 9 2008 by Terry Phillips, South Wales Echo

City bosses have their say

Bobby Gould (2000-01)
Aged 61, recently been coaching in New Zealand

BOBBY Gould was ecstatic to see Joe Ledley blast Cardiff City into the FA Cup final with that wonder strike.

New owner Sam Hammam’s instructions were clear when he was appointed City manager, saying: “Give me a team of young Welsh players.”

“Seeing Joe Ledley score was fantastic,” said Gould.

“The roots Sam Hammam and I put down have produced fruit.

“Our aim was to put in an infrastructure and hopefully that work played some part in bringing young players on.

“I hope Cardiff players, staff and supporters enjoy their day at Wembley. It would be a marvellous achievement if they could win.

“It’s 20 years since I managed Wimbledon in the 1988 FA Cup final win against Liverpool.

“I still think back to that day – and I hope everybody at Cardiff can take away similar memories on May 17.”

Gould joined Cardiff in 2000 – and moved on just over a year later.

He was originally in charge of the first team, but took up a director of football role with Alan Cork in charge of team matters.

Until last month, Gould has been working alongside his son, Jonathan, running Hawkes Bay United in New Zealand.

Kenny Hibbitt: (1995-99)
Aged 57: delegate working with Premier League referees.

"Dave Jones did a terrific job for Wolves, the club I played for, and just look at what he is achieving for Cardiff City.

"Reaching the FA Cup final is a wonderful feat. I’d love to see them win it."

Alan Cork (2000-02)
Aged 49, currently out of football coaching.

"I played in the FA Cup final for Wimbledon and it will be a wonderful occasion for the City players.

"It’s what every footballer dreams about – and I’d love to see Cardiff City win the cup. The Bluebirds fans deserve success."

Lennie Lawrence (2002-05)
Aged 60, Bristol Rovers director of football.

"Playing in the FA Cup final is massive. It’s remarkable with the size of the squad Dave Jones has.

"Cardiff have a terrific chance in the final."

Alan Durban (1984-86)
Aged 67, Fulham talent scout.

"It would be great for Wales if Cardiff could win the FA Cup again. I wish them well."