Bristol City predicted starting XI against Birmingham City - First start in two months for midfielder

Don’t expect a raft of changes when Nigel Pearson names his Bristol City eleven to face Birmingham City.

As has been the case this season, the boss has been working with a relatively small squad and as such as had to name quite a consistent team.

This is despite perhaps some players being out-of-form with the message to improve rather than taking them out of the side. Especially in defence there has been a case for making change but they’ve been unable to because of injuries.

The injury situation is clearing up slowly and this weekend could see the return of Rob Atkinson, who has not played since coming off against Cardiff City in January. Atkinson had been building up some momentum before injuring his back and later his calf and his absence forced Nigel Pearson into the transfer market.

Atkinson is now in competition with experienced defender Timm Klose for a starting berth and at the moment, the latter is favourite because he has coped with the demands of the division, despite a lack of pre-season.

Last week’s loss to Nottingham Forest was frustrating and it was hard to find any positives other than the performance of goalkeeper Daniel Bentley, who conceded two goals but earned the plaudits. Bentley’s performance has put him in good stead for the battle for the number one shirt with Max O’Leary.

Whilst there is a battle in between the sticks, it remains to be seen whether Pearson will make major changes to that defeat or wherever he’ll expect a response from the same players.