The Cardiff City defence was one of their strongest departments from last season as they leaked 51 goals and the real problem lied at the opposite end of the field.
The Bluebirds back four notched up 14 clean sheets and were barely beaten heavily after only allowing 3 goals past David Marshall in a single Championship game on 2 separate occasions.
The Welsh side finished in 8th position that led to Russell Slade being dismissed for not delivering their target of a top six finish.
However, nobody could question the commitment and consistent displays from the Bluebirds defence.
This will be the biggest year in Trollope’s career and after the European Championships are over with Wales, he will be knuckling down to make sure his side retain and bring in the right players for the new season.
The Cardiff boss will reflect on the side’s defensive performances over the summer, but from what he has witnessed so far, he will not be looking to change the back line enormously.
Football League World Writer, Ashley Williams identifies Cardiff City’s dream defence under Paul Trollope for next season…
Matthew Connolly
The Bluebirds central defender was deservedly awarded with the Cardiff City player of the year for his consistent performances and he will be looking to improve on his excellent season.
Trollope has already witnessed his impressive displays and he will be looking to keep one of his prized defenders at the club.
Connolly is an instrumental figure who leads the back line tremendously. He is organised and significantly helps out his defensive partners.
Bruno Ecuele Manga
The Gabon international has been extremely unlucky during his spell at Cardiff City and has been unable to live up to the £5 million price tag that brought him to South Wales.
The central defender suffered an injury plagued 2015/2016 season with continuous knee and groin problems and also became infected with malaria.
However, whenever Manga has appeared in a blue shirt, you can witness an enormous amount of potential that has seen him being linked with sides in the Premier League over the past few months.
Trollope should do his utmost to keep the defender at the club over the summer, whom if remains fit, would be an excellent partner for Connolly.
Fabio
Trollope is a real fan of the Brazilian full back and looks likely to be ahead in the pecking order to Scott Malone for the first Championship fixture of the new season.
The full back is known for his energetic attacking abilities as he constantly overlaps his wingers to offer support. He will be looking for more starts this season under the new boss after appearing just 26 times in all competitions.
However, the Brazilian does need to improve the defensive side to his game over the summer, as he often over plays near his own 18 yard box.
Chris Gunter
The club has not had an impressive right back since the days of Kevin McNaughton who was labelled as a legend for his consistent performances over the years.
This is an area where Trollope needs to strengthen as Lee Peltier has been very average this year and hardly sets the world alight.
A former right back that would be welcomed back with open arms at the Cardiff City stadium is Chris Gunter.
The Reading defender, who is currently on international duty with Wales at the European Championships in France is a full back that is very much suited to the Championship and someone who makes the right back position is own.
Cardiff City fans.. Is this realistically Cardiff’s dream defence for next season? Would you change the defence from last season or bring in new additions? Let us know in your thoughts and opinions below!