Peter Shilton: David Marshall can keep Cardiff in Premier League
Last updated on .From the section Football
Former England goalkeeper Peter Shilton says David Marshall's performances this season could be enough to keep Cardiff City in the Premier League.
Marshall has earned rave reviews for his displays even though Cardiff are currently in the bottom three.
And Shilton, England's most capped player with 125 appearances, says the Scotsman is key to Cardiff's survival.
"He's going to play a big part in Cardiff staying up," said Shilton.
"When you're at the bottom of the league it's a lot harder for a keeper than when you are in a side doing well," Shilton said.
"You're under pressure week in, week out, the side's not playing well, the defence loses confidence and you've got to be there trying to pick up the pieces and win them games.
"Marshall's had a great season and let's just see what happens between now and the end of the season because he's going to play a big part."
Scotland international Marshall joined Cardiff from Norwich City in 2009 having started his career at Celtic.
The 28-year-old signed a new long-term contract in February and has been impressive form during the club's first season in the Premier League.
Marshall gave another fine display as Cardiff won 1-0 at Southampton to boost their hopes of escaping the drop.
The Bluebirds have four matches remaining, starting with the visit of Stoke City on 19 April.
Team-mate Kevin McNaughton has hailed Marshall's performances this season.
"I think he'll go on to better things and he'll probably for a top-four, five team in the division," he said.
"We're just buzzing that we've got him here and he's signed an extension and it's great for the club he's playing for Cardiff," fellow Scot McNaughton told BBC Radio Wales Sport.
"He's probably just beginning to hit his peak now. He's done a great job and I think he's probably one of the best in the league if not the best.
"I can't really see anybody else who's produced the sort of saves he does week in, week out.
"I know he's getting tested because we're allowing him to be tested but every time he's asked to make a save he's been brilliant.
"But I think he's been doing it over the last two or three years and stepping up to the Premier League is a lot more difficult and he's been class, he's just dealt with everything.
"I hope he stays at Cardiff for a long time. The way he's playing at the moment it looks like somebody will probably come and try and nick him off us."
