Chris Powell could hand a quick debut to new Huddersfield Town signing Elliott Ward at Cardiff City.

Supporters are also waiting to see whether on-loan Nottingham Forest forward Jamie Paterson features in South Wales.

And with the gaffer sweating on the fitness of skipper Mark Hudson, fellow centre-back Ward, signed on temporary terms from Premier League Bournemouth this week, is primed to come in.

Hudson picked up an ankle problem during the 1-1 Championship draw at Fulham and aggravated the injury during the 1-0 home defeat by Queens Park Rangers.

Now he could miss out on what would be a first return to Cardiff, where he spent five years and made more than 150 appearances.

Hudson, who cost Cardiff £1m from Charlton Athletic, Town’s hosts on Tuesday, moved to the John Smith’s Stadium a year ago.

He lined up for the Bluebirds when they beat Town 3-1 in South Wales last season.

It’s 14 years since Town beat Cardiff in the Principality and 12 since a home success against them.

And Powell’s side aren’t fancied by bookies to pick up a first victory in any competition this season.

The defeat by QPR left Town third-bottom, while Cardiff are fifth and chasing a third successive league win.

Home manager Russell Slade is set to include former Town trio Lee Peltier, Sean Morrison and Anthony Pilkington.

His squad also includes on-loan Newcastle United winger Sammy Ameobi, brother of former Magpies striker Shola, who is on trial at Town.

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