Liam Manning gives mixed Rob Dickie, Taylor Gardner-Hickman and Kal Naismith update ahead of Blackburn Rovers

Liam Manning says Kal Naismith is set to miss the rest of Bristol City’s season after suffering a calf injury in his fight to return to fitness and gave positive updates on Rob Dickie and Taylor Gardner-Hickman.

Naismith has been sidelined for the majority of the season with a mix of calf and hamstring problems and the Scot hasn’t featured since November.

“Kal’s had a setback with his calf so we’re probably not going t see him again this season, unfortunately,” the manager admitted.

“It’s been tough for him, he’s really frustrated, as am I, but he’s desperate to get back and just keeps having setback after setback.

“It’s important that we support him, get around him and do whatever we can to get him back fit for pre-season, that’s where the energy goes.”

Naismith is one of several long term absentees for the Robins, with Rob Atkinson, Ayman Benarous and Sam Bell facing injury troubles of late.

However, it’s not all bad news for the Robins.

Manning revealed that key duo Dickie and Gardner-Hickman have returned to training on Tuesday morning.

“Tayl’s and Rob Dickie have been out on the grass today but tomorrow will come too soon for them. They’re getting closer which is good news,” he added.

Dickie is out with a calf problem and is expected to miss both the Blackburn and Huddersfield Town matches, which could see Haydon Roberts retain his spot alongside Zak Vyner.

Gardner-Hickman has missed City’s last three matches but could return to face the Terriers.