91Èȱ¬

New Cardiff City manager Russell Slade wants to reduce the size of their 31-strong squad.

He made the statement ahead of his first game in charge - Saturday's Championship match against unbeaten Nottingham Forest in Cardiff.

"If we want to talk about that togetherness, then I do believe that group has to be smaller," said Slade.

His appointment was sealed on 6 October after protracted talks with former club Leyton Orient.

Slade, 53, has previously said he believes Cardiff can reach the play-offs despite lying 15th going into Saturday's encounter, but warned "it will hurt".

And as he looked ahead to his bow as Cardiff boss, Slade said he has "increased the intensity" of training to improve players' fitness.

Cardiff defender Sean Morrison underlined Slade's approach, saying: "The boys have taken to him really well. He wants a hard-working group."

Cardiff have won just three of their 11 matches in the Championship after being relegated following one season in the Premier League.

Slade's appointment followed the departure of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer who had been in charge since January.

He has also previously said he would not rule out offering some players out on loan to other clubs.

Forest will arrive at Cardiff City Stadium for the lunchtime kick-off with five wins and six draws having put them second behind leaders Norwich in the table.

"They've not lost for a reason, but nobody is invincible," said Slade.