Andy Stockhausen on what Bolton Wanderers fans can expect from Bristol City this weekend
Bristol Post’s Andy Stockhausen speaks to bwfc.co.uk to preview the weekend’s visit of Bristol City to Macron Stadium.
bwfc.co.uk: Having claimed the Sky Bet League One title last term, what is expected of team this season?
AS: The feeling among the players was that they would need a period of acclimatisation to begin with, but there was a general belief within the squad that they could not only establish themselves, but push for a top-half finish. As usual, expectations amongst the fans were high following last season’s League One title and Johnstone’s Paint Trophy double-winning success. I suspect few envisaged the difficulties the team have encountered so far.
bwfc.co.uk: How would you summarise Bristol City’s start to life back in the Sky Bet Championship?
AS: The vast majority of fans understand the size of the challenge facing Steve Cotterill and his players and are prepared to be patient. There are always those who are quick to criticise, but for the most part, the fan-base has remained staunchly behind the manager and his players. Most fans feel City are improving and will, in time, be able to push into mid-table.
bwfc.co.uk: How would you assess Bristol’s dealings in the summer transfer market?
AS: There is no hiding from the fact that the club found it difficult to recruit the players they really wanted. High transfer fees and wage demands proved a stumbling block, while some targets were simply not available. In the end, Steve Cotterill and director of football Keith Burt were forced to pursue Plan B, bringing in half a dozen loan signings to plug the gaps in what had been an unbalanced squad.
bwfc.co.uk: Who’s the dangerman?
AS: I have been hugely impressed by Jonathan Kodjia, the 25-year-old striker signed from French Second Division club Angers in the summer. He has adapted quickly to the demands of living and working in a foreign country and looks an absolute steal at £2.1 million. Blessed with blistering pace, a good work ethic and an eye for goal, he has already scored six times this season and has caused problems for just about every Championship defence he has come up against so far.
bwfc.co.uk: And finally, a prediction?
AS: I’m really not sitting on the fence here, but I can see this game finishing as a score draw, probably 1-1.
Andy is on Twitter, @AndyStockhausen.
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