McPhail picked up an injury early on in the 2009–10 season, keeping him out of the side for one month. Returning to the side on in the league encounter with Reading, McPhail was sent off for a foul on Jem Karacan. Following the end of his suspension, McPhail returned in a thumping 6–1 win against Derby County at Cardiff City Stadium, playing a part in four of City's goals.
McPhail got an injury early in the 2009–10 season and missed one month. He returned for a league game against Reading but was sent off for fouling Jem Karacan. After his suspension ended, McPhail rejoined the team in a 6–1 win over Derby County at Cardiff City Stadium, scoring four goals.