Josh Walker will be back in the Watford squad for the visit of the Bluebirds.
The former Middlesbrough man was sent out on loan to League Two side Stevenage last month but has been recalled early by manager Malky Mackay and could be on the bench.
He is needed as midfielder Stephen McGinn sustained a broken cheekbone and eye socket in a clash with QPR striker Rob Hulse during the fine 3-1 win at Loftus Road a fortnight ago.
McGinn is due to sit out first-team action for at least four weeks.
Teenage midfielder Piero Mingoia is fit again after a thigh injury and could be among the substitutes while Michael Bryan has suffered a fresh ankle injury so the winger will not be involved.
Cardiff will check on a trio of players ahead of the game.
Striker Jay Bothroyd did not recover from a hamstring injury in time to feature against Coventry on Boxing Day and he will be assessed.
Midfielders Chris Burke and Danny Drinkwater were also missing against the Sky Blues as they were laid low with a virus which has swept through the Welsh club in recent weeks and they will also be monitored.
Defender Chris Riggott managed his first appearance in eight months on Sunday, lasting just over an hour and it remains to be seen whether he can manage another appearance so soon.
The win over Aidy Boothroyd's side was Cardiff's first success in four attempts and moved them back into the automatic promotion places.
