‘Bye bye Alex’ - Bristol City reaction as £25m star absent amid Bournemouth links

Bristol City star Alex Scott has not been named in the Robins’ first match of the Championship season against Preston North End.

The midfielder has long been the centre of attention at BS3, as several Premier League clubs continue to be linked with a £25million move for the teenager.

But, it is a knock picked up in training last week that keeps Scott out of action this afternoon, although, the City faithful are fearful that his omission could spell a potential exit.

(Via Twitter)

@Woody292929 - “Bye bye Alex.”

@Louiedun11 - “Thanks for everything Alex.”

@Burto69 - “Scott gone then.”

However, many were quick to point out that Scott’s absence is most likely down to the fact that he is simply not match fit.

@TomMGorvin - “Knock in training so potentially he isn’t (leaving). Only time will tell.”

@bcfcgilly - “SCOTT IS NOT GONE HE HAS A KNOCK.”

Scott’s injury sees Jason Knight introduced for his competitive debut for the Robins, alongside Matty James and club captain Andi Weimann in the middle.

Pearson names Nahki Wells as the central striker, with Harry Cornick and Sam Bell either side of the Bermudan.

New no.1 and currently the sole senior goalkeeper at the club, Max O’Leary, starts in goal for the hosts, while Rob Dickie also makes his competitive debut alongside Zak Vyner in the heart of defence.

George Tanner starts at right back, and despite an impressive first pre-season at the club from Haydon Roberts, one of last season's top performers Cam Pring starts on the left hand side.

Bristol City (4-3-3): Max O’Leary, George Tanner, Zak Vyner, Rob Dickie, Cam Pring, Matty James, Jason Knight, Andi Weimann, Harry Cornick, Nahki Wells, Sam Bell.