Cardiff City boss Omer Riza has welcomed the return of star midfielder Aaron Ramsey.

The 34-year old Wales captain played 45 minutes for Cardiff Under-21s in the Premier League Cup hours before the first XI were humbled 7-0 at Leeds United.

Ramsey set up a goal as Cardiff beat Everton 3-2, his first appearance since August because of a hamstring injury suffered playing for Wales in September.

Riza says Ramsey’s return provides a boost for Cardiff in a week where their future was improved by key players Callum Robinson, Jak Alnwick and Callum O’Dowda signing new contracts.

“I managed to watch a bit, it was nice to see Aaron get 45 minutes,” he said.

“It’s nice to see him training and on the pitch, it is positive.

“Now we need to get him to a place where he can compete at a high level.”