Cardiff City and West Ham United go head to head in the first leg of the crucial playoff semi-finals with both clubs eager to reach the top flight for next season.

The Bluebirds host the Hammers for the first tie, with manager Malky Mackay expected to choose from a relatively fit squad for tonight's clash.

Rudy Gestede made a late return to the side during Cardiff's 2-1 win over Crystal Palace last weekend, but the Scottish boss could opt for Kenny Miller and Joe Mason up front.

The Welsh side may also line up with Don Cowie in midfield alongside Liam Lawrence as they attempt to snatch the advantage over West Ham.

Meanwhile, Sam Allardyce is expected to start Gary O'Neil, despite the midfielder suffering an ankle injury during the Hammers' 2-1 win over Hull City last Saturday.

Club captain Kevin Nolan is expected to retain his spot in the middle of the park, with Carlton Cole and Ricardo Vaz Te due to lead the line for the former Premier League outfit.

Current form:

Cardiff: WDWWDW
West Ham: WDWDWW

Possible lineups:

Cardiff: Marshall; McNaughton, Hudson, Taylor, Turner; Whittingham, Lawrence, Cowie, Gunnarsson; Mason, Miller

West Ham: Green; Reid, Demel, Tomkins; Nolan, Noble, Taylor, Lansbury, O'Neil; Vaz Te, Cole

Sports Mole says: 1-2