Need for speed - Cardiff's summer transfer plans

Cardiff head coach Brian Barry-Murphy (left) will hope to keep in-demand Dylan Lawlor (right) this summer [Huw Evans Picture Agency] Cardiff City made an instant return to the Championship by winning automatic promotion from League One this season, their first campaign in the third tier for more than two decades. It's been a month since the Bluebirds sealed promotion, so work is already under way to ensure they stay clear of relegation next season. Player recruitment – and retention – lead the agenda as head coach Brian Barry-Murphy weighs up how much he will need to strengthen his young side.

As Cardiff brace themselves for an important summer, BBC Sport Wales analyses their options and needs as they prepare for life back in the Championship. Left-back Bagan signs long-term Cardiff deal Wintle confirms 'out of my control' Cardiff departure Ng stays on at Cardiff after agreeing new deal How much work is required? As impressive as Cardiff were for much of this season, they will have to bolster their ranks to account for the significant gulf in quality between League One and the Championship.

Barry-Murphy has chosen to keep a relatively small squad and, while there will be a need to improve the strength in depth, the Irishman's mantra in the transfer market has always been "quality over quantity". Their first bit of business has been to turn goalkeeper Nathan Trott's loan into a permanent signing, a smart move given his excellent shot-stopping and ability on the ball which has helped Barry-Murphy instil his enterprising style of play. Cardiff will look to strengthen at full-back, with competition needed for Perry Ng on the right flank and Joel Bagan on the left in defence.

The Bluebirds' midfield could do with more physicality and dynamism too, while some added pace on the wings would be welcome. Broadly speaking, if there are upgrades out there, Barry-Murphy will be interested wherever they are on the pitch. But he has already said he will be giving his young players, integral to this season's success, a chance to prove they can flourish in a higher division.