This article is part of Football League World's 'The Verdict' series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...
If Cardiff City manager Neil Warnock was in any doubt of the task facing the Bluebirds this season following relegation to the Championship, then he is certainly fully aware now, following a 3-0 league defeat to Reading at the Madejski Stadium at the weekend.
The comprehensive loss means that City have taken only three points from a possible nine and are down in 19th place in the table.
So should Cardiff fans be concerned after the 3-0 humbling by Reading?
We discuss........
Josh Cole
“After seeing their side put up a spirited display in the Premier League last season, Cardiff fans would have been confident in the club’s ability to bounce back during the current campaign.
“However, despite securing a 2-1 victory over Luton Town last week, the nature of their defeat to Reading yesterday will surely be a concern to Neil Warnock.
“Dominated from start to finish by the Royals, Cardiff were way off the pace and should consider themselves fortunate only to concede 3 goals against a side who were battling relegation in the Championship last season.
“Although it would be naïve to suggest that the Bluebirds are facing a full-blown crisis after just four games, it is clear that they must deliver a response against Huddersfield Town on Wednesday at the Cardiff City Stadium.”
Ned Holmes
“Yes, I think they should be.
“Cardiff were relegated from the Premier League last season and this result indicates they haven’t quite shaken the hangover just yet.
“The Bluebirds will be targeting a return to the top flight at the first time of asking but two losses from three games against teams that are unlikely to be pushing for the play-offs does not suggest they’re at that level.
“It may just be an early season wobble and it is difficult to pass judgement on a side before their summer signings have been given a chance to settle but it has been a poor start.
“Neil Warnock has indicated that this is going to be his last season in management and he will want to get his side back on track as soon as possible to ensure he makes it that far.”
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Jacob Potter
"They have every right to be concerned.
"Warnock’s side looked void of any ideas going forward, and rarely troubled Reading’s defence.
"Reading were hugely impressive on the day, but that shouldn’t take away from the fact that Cardiff could be in real danger this season if they carry on like this.
"There’s not even been a huge amount of changes to the team that dropped out of the Premier League last season, so they need to sort this inconsistent run of form out as soon as possible.
"Otherwise, the pressure will grow on Neil Warnock in his final season in management, which I fear could come to a premature end if Cardiff continue to struggle."