in december 1948 he returned to wales to sign for cardiff city for £12,000. he made his debut in a 2–2 draw with leicester city before scoring on his home debut in a 6–1 victory over bradford park avenue. he helped the bluebirds to promotion as second division runners-up in the 1951–52 season and began forming a partnership with striker wilf grant. he decided to retire in 1955 while still first choice for cardiff.