Having started his Cardiff reign with a collection of victories in quick succession, Mick McCarthy was naturally disappointed when his side fell away during the final weeks of the campaign
Nevertheless, McCarthy has recorded 39 points from his 22 matches in charge of the Welsh outfit, a ratio which the veteran boss would undoubtedly accept throughout 2021-22.
The likes of Sheyi Ojo and Harry Wilson, who have returned to parent club Liverpool, are yet to be replaced, while it remains to be seen whether Cardiff can retain the services of Wales star Kieffer Moore.
However, McCarthy will be pleased that Arsenal defender Mark McGuinness and Luton Town forward James Collins have already arrived ahead of a relatively congested schedule during July.
Cardiff have been provided with a favourable start to the season, beginning with a home meeting against Barnsley and a trip to newly-promoted Blackpool.
McCarthy will instead prefer to focus on trying to get their pre-season off to a positive start, aware that a slip-up against non-league opposition would sour the mood in South Wales.
National League South outfit Bath have returned to action with victories over Larkhall Athletic and Frome Town, scoring nine goals in the process.
Despite starting with games against teams lower down the pyramid, Jerr.y Gill will be confident that the Romans can pull off a surprise at Twerton Park
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Moore will play no part for Cardiff after representing his country during Euro 2020, while the unused Jonny Williams and Rubin Colwill are also expected to miss out.
As well as McGuinness and Collins, Ryan Wintle is in line to make an appearance after his transfer from Crewe Alexandra.
Gill could select his strongest Bath XI for Saturday’s fixture and the following encounter against League Two club Exeter City.
