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Neil Warnock says goalkeeper Neil Etheridge is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

The Cardiff City number one was forced off midway through the second half of the opening-day defeat to Wigan Athletic at the DW Stadium, with his exit preceding two quick goals that would eventually set the hosts up for a thrilling victory.

Etheridge looked in some pain before being replaced by new signing Joe Day, and Warnock admits he is facing a prolonged period without the Philippines international.

However, he's dismissed any suggestion that the keeper's exit was a turning point in the defeat.

"It's a hamstring injury, so it'll be a few weeks I think," Warnock said.

"I didn't think we held it up front much second half and I thought their strikers did very well, and on another day, as I say, I think we had the opportunities.

"One or two questions were answered today in my own mind, so I'm aware of the situation, but disappointed as I thought it was a game we could have got three points from."

New signing Robert Glatzel was in attendance for this clash, having been ruled out due to suspension, while fellow new arrivals Day and Aden Flint offered some definite positives for the City boss.

(Image: PA)

However, the result will once again place Cardiff's dealings in the transfer window under scrutiny.

City are believed to be keen on further bolstering their attacking options ahead of the window closing, and Warnock admits he's hoping to conclude his business before Thursday's deadline.

"You just don't know with the transfer window," he added. "I'll be glad when it's Friday, put it that way. I think it's a nightmare. It doesn't matter who you are or how many players, there's always something unexpected that comes up and we've got to be ready for that.

"I've had enquiries for certain players, and certain players may move. We've enquired about certain players. There might be a possibility of a late loan from the Premier League if they don't get the move they want.

"There's so much. Thursday everyone will be scrambling. I hope I'm sat at home with everything done."