Cabango, 24, and Darling, 25, have been two of Swansea’s key performers this season with the duo starting in every league game in 2024-25 alongside each other at the heart of Williams’ defence until Cabango suffered a groin injury at Portsmouth on New Year’s Day.
The Swans travel to the Welsh capital to face the relegation-threatened Bluebirds in 12th position looking for a response to the disappointing 3-0 cup loss against Southampton last weekend.
The Wales international missed the draw with West Brom three days later as well as last weekend’s defeat against the Saints, with Darling also absent at St Mary’s with what is thought to be a back issue.
Williams says both players are desperate to be back on the pitch on Saturday, but he can provide no guarantees they will be available.
“Ben was able to get out on the grass on Wednesday so that’s better,” said Williams in his pre-match conference.
“He couldn’t do all of training, but he got on the grass, so we are happy with that. We will see because we can do as much as possible, but there’s a limit.”
On Darling, Williams added: “I am optimistic he will train at some point before the game.”
In Cabango’s absence, Cyrus Christie made his first start since rejoining Swansea alongside Darling against West Brom, before partnering veteran Kyle Naughton at Southampton.
Further up the field there was encouraging signs as winger Josh Ginnelly made his first appearance in 16 months as a substitute against the Saints, and Williams says Swansea must continue to extra careful with the former Hearts man despite his long-awaited comeback.
“I certainly think he’s a way off being able to play a lot of minutes,” Williams said.
Academy product and fellow wide man Sam Parker, 18, could soon follow Ginnelly by making a long-awaited return to action after a year out with hamstring issues, whilst midfielder Ollie Cooper has also returned to light training.
“He is training very well and in a good place,” Williams added.
“We have to be careful because we suffered a setback with him a few months ago, but he’s doing very well.
“Ollie warmed up today, and he did some work with the conditioning team, which was really pleasing to see.”
[Lead image: Swansea City FC]
