Bristol City manager Nigel Pearson received a boost this week when Antoine Semenyo and Joe Williams took up training again ahead of their match with Peterborough United.
Centre midfielder Joe Williams came off with a reoccurring hamstring injury which was fortunately not as severe as the ones he has previous suffered from. Antoine Semenyo meanwhile jarred his knee which kept him out of international duty with Ghana, as well as last week’s defeat to AFC Bournemouth.
With both taking in a full week of training sessions, both should be in contention but there may be an element of caution on how many minutes they play. Williams will already be limited to just one game a week and as such, is likely to be a substitute ahead of a double-header on Good Friday and Easter Monday.
For Semenyo, he has been pivotal to City’s attack this season, with 16 goal contributions, cementing himself as a reliable forward for the Robins. The 22-year-old though has had a knee injury before and no one will want to see a repeat of his withdrawal against West Bromwich Albion, but he has overcome similar injuries before.
Whilst there is a focus on City’s attacking options, there is likely to be no changes at the back given that Tomas Kalas has been ruled out again due to a groin injury. Right-back George Tanner made his return to action for the under-23’s but played only a half before being substituted, so he isn’t in consideration.
Below is how we think, Bristol City will line up against Peterborough United at Ashton Gate this afternoon.
1. GK: Daniel Bentley
Likely to see out the remainder of the season ahead of Max O’Leary. Photo: Marc Atkins/Getty Images
2. CB: Robbie Cundy
Playing for his future with contract up at the end of the season. Needs to showcase to Nigel Pearson he is Championship material. Photo: Cameron Smith/Getty Images
3. CB: Rob Atkinson
Overcome multiple injuries over the past few months and scored a goal last week. Build up his Championship experience. Photo: Dan Isitene/Getty Images
4. CB: Timm Klose
Another player who is playing for his long-term future. Will have to lead Atkinson and Cundy given the continued absence of Tomas Kalas. Photo: Harry Trump/Getty Images