Bristol City XI predicted to face Wycombe as Nigel Pearson freshens up side

Gareth Ainsworth and his Chairboys are what stands in the way of City progressing to Round Three of the first domestic cup journey of the season. Bristol City visit Adams Park on Wednesday, August 24 and will hope to avoid an upset against a side they’ve had experience of playing before.

Wycombe finished sixth last season but lost to Sunderland in the play-off final after suffering relegation from the second tier a year prior. A lot has changed with some new recruits to the Buckinghamshire club including the signing of Alfie Mawson, who had a loan spell at both sides.

Wycombe managed to overcome the hurdle of League Two promotion hopefuls Northampton Town but are still expected to ring the changes which could give City an opportunity as their fringe players on paper should be stronger than the opposition.

Nigel Pearson is expected to make a few changes to freshen things up from the team that cruised to victory over Cardiff City on Sunday, with players expected to be rested and some out there with a point to prove.

Here is the BristolWorld predicted Bristol City XI to face Wycombe.

Goalkeeper: Daniel Bentley

Bentley is expected to start between the sticks as he has done all season. Stefan Bajic is still recovering from a wrist injury but is making progress as he pushes for his debut.

Max O’Leary remains as a back-up goalkeeper but when Bajic is available, should be allowed to leave on loan

Centre-backs: Rob Atkinson, Timm Klose and George Tanner

In the last Cup match, the same defence was kept which was used to build up a bit more of an understanding between the three which ultimately worked as in the last two matches, two clean sheets have been recorded.

George Tanner is predominantly a right-sided defender so trying him in the role of Zak Vyner might work.

Kal Naismith has been fantastic upon his arrival and is really growing into life but a rest could be welcomed ahead of a long trip on Saturday.

Rob Atkinson meanwhile is enjoying his spell in the side and with there not many other defensive options he could start again.

Wing-backs: Cameron Pring and Kane Wilson

Jay Dasilva and Alex Scott in this case could be afforded rests after starting last Sunday. Cameron Pring came in against Coventry and did a more than capable job there, as he tries to force his way back into the side.

Wilson on the right-flank however needs game time, having initially been signed with the feeling he would start straight away.

Scott was preferred to him on Sunday and so it is up to Wilson to influence Pearson’s opinion now.

Central midfield: Andy King, Han-Noah Massengo and Andi Weimann

Whilst personal strides have been made, Joe Williams seems still unable to do two games in a week, so he is expected to start on the bench. Player-coach Andy King is a leader and should take up the role of defensive enforcer.

Han-Noah Massengo had his best game in a City shirt last Sunday but will want to take all the game time that he can with his future uncertain.

Andi Weimann then should start behind the striker as he did in the last few matches in a role he has thrived at under Pearson.

Strikers: Tommy Conway and Nahki Wells

Conway and Wells started well against Coventry and as such have started the last two Championship games. Wells assisted Conway for his goal against Cardiff which could be the early signs of a strong partnership.

Chris Martin may push for a start but he had started the first few league games, so his chance will come again.