HELP: Clutch/Foot Shifter Issue
 

LATER EDIT: NO NEED TO REPLY TO THIS POST - AND CAN BE DELETED BY MODERATOR
I partly disassembled the cable and its frayed at the handle and so just ordered a replacement cable, and will lube the new one.

Just started today, here is what happens:

---- When in motion, it's OK. But once I slow down down to 1st gear to stop at a red light, shifting gets stiffer -- and once stopped I can't upshift to neutral. So I stay in 1st until light goes green and once I gather some speed, shifting gets more normal (can shift out of 1st to 2nd, etc.).

---- Other symptoms: when I come to a stop/am in 1st gear, it takes a few seconds for engine to rev down to what it should be at at 1st gear. Had an instance or two of "creep" in 1st gear/at stop.

What is the problem here and is it something I can easily fix?
Thanks.

Bump.