Thommo has score to settle

May 11 2008 By Scott Mcdermott

CARDIFF City striker Steven Thompson will delay a return to the SPL to prove his English doubters wrong.

The former Dundee United and Rangers front-man has become a cult figure at Ninian Park since arriving from Ibrox in 2006.

He played his 100th game for the Bluebirds last week against Barnsley andwill bow out for the club at the FA Cup Final on Saturday.

But his paltry 16-goal return in two years means he will always have his critics.

The 16-times capped Scotland striker has endured the flak for long enough and will head for pastures new in the summer.

And while he wants to finish his career in Scotland he wants to prove himself first as a scorer in England.

Transfer-listed Stevie said: "I'm only 29 and I've got a bit to prove.

"It hasn't quite gone the way I wanted down here. A fresh start, where I've not got those stats, might help.

"I can score - I've proved that already. But it's just not materialised for me at Cardiff.

"As a striker you're always open to criticism but I'm trying my hardest. I know I've not scored enough and the fans have had a pop.

"The lack of goals will always be a monkey on my back.

"People here have made up their minds about me.

"I've definitely enjoyed my time here though as has my wife who has settled well.

"I suppose I've got a bit of a love-hate relationship with the fans but I've learned to live with that."