MARK Kennedy played a big part in propelling Cardiff City to the brink of the Premier League last season, but today he is out to halt their progress.

MARK Kennedy played a big part in propelling Cardiff City to the brink of the Premier League last season, but today he is out to halt their progress.

Kennedy’s last game for the Bluebirds, before his summer switch to Ipswich Town, was the Championship play-off final defeat at the hands of surprise package Blackpool last May.

Cardiff may have missed out last term, but Dave Jones’ men look in good condition to mount another challenge this season.

Kennedy recognises this, but Town’s left-back is not bothered about his old club anymore. Instead, he is focused on making up for the disappointment of Tuesday night’s home defeat at the hands of league leaders QPR.

“We don’t want to rest on our laurels. We want to get back to winning ways,” insisted Kennedy.

“The most important thing is to improve on Tuesday night (3-0 defeat to QPR) and get three points.

“My last appearance for Cardiff was just part and parcel of life. We didn’t deserve anything on the day. It was bitterly disappointing for us and the club, but there’s always another year for the club and the supporters.

“I’m sure they will bounce back very strongly this year, and will be there or thereabouts.

“They’ve start well this season. But it’s not about Cardiff, it’s about what we do and how we approach the game.

“As a player, I’ve always tried not to worry about the opposition and instead concetrate on what we’re good at. We’ll give them respect as a top Championship side, and then the rest is down to us,” added Kennedy.

Kennedy’s long-awaited home debut did not go according to plan against QPR. The 34-year-old had been struggling with a strained hamstring for a month, before returning as a second-half substitute at Portsmouth last weekend.

The Irishman’s comeback was actually over-shadowed by the return of star striker Connor Wickham to the fold. Wickham could start against second-placed Cardiff today.

Kennedy said of his 17-year-old team-mate: “There’s a lot of chat about Connor.

“He’s only 17 and I’m sure he’ll have a big role to play. He made an impact the other night (as a substitute) but it’s a team game and Ipswich isn’t about any one player.

“It’s about everybody collectively. It’s all about doing it now on the pitch.

“The most important thing is that he’s back and he’s healthy, and he’s looking strong and he’s looking good. I’m sure when he gets his opportunity, he’ll take it,” added Kennedy.