Goutas' future in his hands - Cardiff boss Riza
Dimitrios Goutas joined Cardiff on a free after he left Turkish side Sivasspor
- Published
Manager Omer Riza says defender Dimitrios Goutas' future at Cardiff City is in the player's hands.
The Greek international is out of contract at the end of the season having only missed four Championship matches since joining the club in the summer of 2023.
Riza says the club have spoken to the 30-year-old about his future but added that nothing will be decided until the summer.
"Dimi's done brilliantly this year," Riza said. "He's done a good job, he's led by example.
"I think it's probably in Dimi's hands now in respect of what it looks like moving forwards.
"I think the club and Dimi have had conversations, but now we'll see what it looks like by the end of the season."
Goutas was signed by Riza's predecessor Erol Bulut, joining in the same summer as fellow Greek international Manolis Siopis.
Siopis left the Bluebirds in January, with Goutas' future also now uncertain.
"He's been here now two years," Riza added.
"I think conversations will take place at the end of the season."
Goutas was ever present last season in the league and has started in all bar four Championship matches this term after returning from suspension following his red card at Plymouth in February.
He is expected to be at the heart of Cardiff's defence as they travel to promotion-chasing Sunderland on Saturday.
Full-back Andy Rinomhota is unlikely to play after suffering a hamstring injury in Tuesday's home defeat by Burnley.
Defender Jesper Daland and midfielder David Turnbull are nearing a return to fitness whilst winger Ollie Tanner is targeting a comeback from a foot injury in the game at Blackburn on 15 March.
