Cardiff City striker Joe Mason has admitted that he thought his career with the Bluebirds was over before the appointment of current manager Russell Slade.

The 24-year-old was sent out on loan to Bolton Wanderers on three occasions between November 2013 and January this year before becoming a key part of Slade's plans towards the end of last season.

"I was really happy that Russell Slade said he wanted to recall me," Mason told reporters. "Bolton had changed manager and I was not really playing under the new one. So to hear that from Russell Slade was a massive boost for me. The injury set me back, but even at the end of last season the manager here put me in straight away when I was fit.

"I thought at times I would have a big part to play before, but it was not to be. I definitely thought at one point my time at Cardiff was over. After Malky [Mackay] went I really thought it might be time to move on, but now I'm back, I'm really happy and long may that continue.

"I've started off the season quite well. After pre-season I wanted to get a place in the team. I've set myself little targets and if I hit them I will let you know. It's so far, so good. It does bring pressure, but you want it. I've been here four years waiting patiently to get my chance. I feel I've got the chance now this year to finally prove what I am capable of. I hope to take that chance."

Mason joined Cardiff from Plymouth Argyle in 2011 for a fee of £250,000, and has since scored 21 goals in 90 appearances.