On 21 July 2006, Gilbert was loaned to Championship team Cardiff City for the 2006–07 season. Gilbert began the season as the club's first choice right back and was a regular in the team until December. However, he suffered a minor injury which kept him out for several games. He was replaced by Chris Gunter and was unable to force his way back into the starting line-up, meaning he did not feature as much during the second half of the season. Gilbert made 26 appearances for Cardiff, as they narrowly missed out on the play-offs.