Cardiff City boss Malky Mackay backs Wales' Ben Turner move

Cardiff defender Ben Turner challenges Crystal Palace's Glenn Murray for a ball

Malky Mackay has advised Wales manager Gary Speed to 'cap Ben Turner tomorrow' as the Cardiff City defender ponders an international future with Wales.

The former England Under-19 centre-back qualifies for Wales through his Welsh grandmother and Speed has watched the 23-year-old play for Cardiff.

The Football Association of Wales intends to contact Turner to discuss his Welsh eligibility.

"If it is the case, that is great news for Wales," said Cardiff boss Mackay.

Wales youth team coach Brian Flynn initially approached Turner two years ago but the Birmingham-born player did not provide proof of his Welsh heritage.

But the FAW will now contact the 6ft 4ins defender officially in an effort to finally confirm the player's Welsh heritage.

Turner is currently keeping Wales centre back Darcy Blake out of the Cardiff side.

Blake and Swansea City's Ashley Williams are Speed's current first-choice defensive partnership, and have helped Wales to four wins in their last five internationals.

Premier League trio James Collins, Danny Gabbidon and Danny Collins are also available to Speed, while Lewin Nyatanga is further down the Wales pecking order.

But Turner's performances have been impressive since his summer move to Cardiff from Championship rivals Coventry City.

And Scotsman Mackay said: "The size and population of Wales, like Scotland, you need every good player you can get.

"So if there is a link and an availability of players of a good standard then great.

"I think it is necessary countries do their homework and manage to check out players.

"And if it was me, I'd cap him tomorrow to make sure they get him."

Wales have no fixtures currently planned but the FAW are hoping to arrange a friendly international for 29 February ahead of their 2014 World Cup qualifying campaign, which will start in August or September.