Bristol City predicted XI as one key change likely for Ipswich Town clash

Bristol City will look to record back-to-back wins at Ashton Gate when they take on EFL Championship high flyers Ipswich Town on Wednesday night.

The Robins are on the up after their narrow 1-0 victory over Coventry City on Saturday moved Nigel Pearson’s side upto eight place in the table, and will be eager to continue their positive form ahead of Saturday’s Severnside derby.

Kieran McKenna’s side also come into the game full of optimism. The Tractor Boys are unbeaten in their last nine matches in all competitions, and their stellar form has seen them move upto second place in the league table.

In terms of team news, City will again be without Joe Williams and Kal Naismith, as well as Nahki Wells, Zak Vyner and Rob Atkinson.

Pearson tinkered with his sides tactical approach against the Sky Blues as the Robins lined up in a 3-4-1-2 formation, but it soon became apparent that the tweak wasn’t working. The manager opted to revert back to their usual 4-3-3 approach before half-time, which provided a greater level of stability.

With the Robins once again light on numbers, here’s how we think they will line up against Ipswich...

1. GK - Max O’Leary

The goalkeeper has played every minute for City this campaign and will be in between the sticks once more.

2. RB - Mark Sykes

Sykes filled in at right back in the Coventry win, and should retain his spot. Though the position is by no means his preffered role, his pace and ability to read danger makes him a valuable asset to his team.

3. CB - Rob Dickie

City’s only fit senior centre back and coming off the back of a MOTM display against the Sky Blues, Dickie will have a huge part to play if the Robins are to emerge victorious.

4. CB - Andy King

The experienced veteran looked assured when slotting in alongside Dickie on Saturday, and though Cam Pring could be utilised alongisde the ex-QPR man, he is expected to start in his preffered left back role.

5. LB - Cam Pring

One of City’s best performers over the last 12 months will slot in at left back once again, there is a possibility that Pring could partner Dickie, but given Haydon Roberts’ poor showing on Saturday, Pring should be used in his natural role.

6. CM - Matty James

The holding midfielder so often sets the tone and controls proceedings from the middle of the park. He showed his grit and character last time out and will be a key man once more.

7. CM - Jason Knight

Probably City’s player of the season so far, the summer signing came on for the best part of an hour on Saturday after being ill just days prior and was one of the best players on the pitch. Can score goals from midfield and will run all day long.

8. CM - Taylor Gardner-Hickman

Has made a good start to life at BS3, a good passer and a brilliant set piece taker. Should retain his spot after a good display against Coventry.

9. RW - Andi Weimann

The skipper played 90 minutes against the Sky Blues for the first time this season, and will likely start again given Wells’ absence.

10. ST - Tommy Conway

An hour under his belt last time out as he returns to full match fitness. Didn’t get many chances to get on the scoresheet on Saturday but will be hoping to be back amongst the goals against McKenna’s men.

11. LW - Sam Bell

His raw pace is always a threat and will start on the left flank once again. His link up with Pring always leads to plenty of openings and he’s another who will be eager to get his name on the scoresheet.