Bristol City vs Middlesbrough injury news with five out and four doubtful

Bristol City will assess Omar Taylor-Clarke but Kal Naismith could make a welcomed return against Middlesbrough.

The Robins beat Stoke City 2-1 on Good Friday, coming from behind to win a match for the first time in the Championship this season. It was all smiles as Anis Mehmeti opened his account for the club after Zak Vyner responded to Nick Powell’s opener.

Omar Taylor-Clarke’s early departure was the only gloss off the defeat. Manager Nigel Pearson said he was subbed off with a ‘tight calf’ and was substituted to ‘minimalise the damage’ but he will be assessed. Tommy Conway left the action early too as he was substituted at half-time but that was always the plan. The Scotland Under-21 international did take a heavy knock but was substituted and should hopefully make the game.

In a welcomed boost, Kal Naismith could play for the first time since February. He injured his calf against Preston in early February and has missed the last 12 games and whilst Pearson has been cautious, he could return. Tomas Kalas has been training and could also find himself amongst the subs but if not this match then he should be in contention against Watford next week.

Alex Scott has been ruled out of the match with the Easter period coming too soon for him. He sustained a knee ligament injury whilst on international duty but it is not thought to be serious.

Ayman Benarous, Joe Williams and Rob Atkinson are out for the rest of the season. Mark Sykes serves the third game of his four game suspension after being retrospectively banned by the FA for an incident against Swansea City.

Middlesbrough’s injury problems aren’t bad with Matt Clarke their only player out with injury. He’s got a back problem and may not feature for the remainder of the campaign.