Bristol City continue to reduce coaching team as Keith Downing is the latest to go

Keith Downing has left his post as assistant head coach at Bristol City, following Paul Simpson out of the door in the last week.

Downing, who joined the club in August of last year to work under Dean Holden, has been moved on after a restructure to the coaching staff.

The 56-year-old wasn’t in the dugout for the weekend defeat to West Bromwich Albion, which signalled the end of his time at Ashton Gate.

Despite both his and Simpson’s departure in the last six days, the Robins are not planning to replace them.

Commenting on his departure, the former England coach said: “I would like to thank the Lansdowns for the opportunity to have worked at this special club. It’s been a privilege to have worked alongside such diligent staff and players over the last 14 months.

“I wish the club the very best in all future endeavours and thank the fans for their invaluable support throughout my time here.”

Chief executive Richard Gould added: "We are very grateful for the contribution Paul and Keith have made.

"They have been professional and hard working during a period of change. The club has evolved its structure during the last 12 months and the responsibilities they were recruited for have changed to the point where both parties recognised the need for a mutual agreement to part company."

Since his appointment in February, first-team Nigel Pearson has slowly put his stamp on his coaching team.

Dave Rennie, who was previously physio at Leicester during Pearson’s tenure, was appointed as head of medical performance.

Curtis Fleming was also brought into the club in July to cover for Paul Simpson as assistant manager and last month was confirmed as a permanent member of staff.

Former City midfielder Kalifa Cissé and goalkeeper Pat Mountain are the other core members of Pearson’s team.

Bristol City reside in 17th place in the Championship table and have not secured a home win all season, whilst scoring the leagues fewest at home. They welcome fellow league strugglers Barnsley on Saturday.