Bristol City (a), The ACN Preview

Generally supporters are pleased with the start, given that Bristol City are in a good position in the table and have only lost twice in the league so far, one of those coming against Bournemouth on Wednesday amid bad injury problems and after a performance that probably merited a point. However, there is a little bit of concern given that the Robins have started each of the past two seasons in good form, only for it to all tail off once it comes to crunch time. Bristol City haven’t won for four games either, so they need to get back to winning ways soon.

Former Norwich man Chris Martin has really impressed since coming in and has a healthy four assists to his name, as the striker has cleverly linked up play and unselfishly set up chances for his teammates. In defence, new captain Tomas Kalas has been outstanding recently following some time out with a shoulder injury, and he is the key man at the back for Dean Holden’s side. In midfield, Jamie Paterson has been fairly consistent at offering a threat going forward while emerging young talent Tyreeq Bakinson has surprised everyone with the strides he has made this year, gaining a regular starting spot for himself in the process. Nahki Wells and Famara Diedhiou have blown a little hot and cold so far but might be crucial for the home side’s chances on the weekend.

Watkins has suffered a few niggling injuries in his two years at Ashton Gate and though he has impressed at times when coming into the side, he was never able to cement himself into the team selection for regular game time. Bristol City have reinforced heavily in midfield and attack and Watkins is one of those who has suffered as a result, shipped off to Scotland for more starts. It’s not inconceivable that he could return in January, but it’s probably unlikely.