Bristol City will go in search of a third consecutive win when they host Championship strugglers Queens Park Rangers on Saturday afternoon.
Liam Manning’s side are full of confidence after ending promotion chasing Southampton’s 25-game unbeaten run on Tuesday, which capped off a top display. Before that, the Robins defeated Middlesbrough 2-1 at the Riverside Stadium.
Despite failing to win in their first five league matches in 2024, City are now just points off the top six and with three winnable fixtures coming up, could put themselves firmly in the play-off shake-up come the end of the month.
But they will face no easy task against QPR, who despite currently sitting in the relegation spots, have only lost once in their previous five fixtures.
While they don’t tend to score many goals, their defensive record is respectable in terms of their league position, as 11 Championship sides have conceded more than the Hoops this term.
Talented midfielder Ilias Chair will be one individual City will need to keep close tabs on. Chair is QPR’s top goal contributor this season, with five goals and eight assists in the league.
The last time these two met, the match ended in an underwhelming 0-0 draw in what was Manning’s first game at the helm after the departure of Nigel Pearson.
City will be hoping for a more decisive result this time around, especially with the home support behind them.
Here’s how I think the Robins will set up…
1. GK - Max O'Leary
The shot-stopper has played every minute for City this season and will be in between the sticks.
2. RB - Ross McCrorie
McCrorie looked sharp when coming off the bench against the Saints and could come into the side.
3. CB - Zak Vyner
On top of his game right now, will lead from the back with his calmness and composure.
4. CB - Rob Dickie
Another who's playing excellently, Dickie will be solid defensively and a threat from set pieces.