The summer transfer window may have only opened today but already Bristol City have been busy with a few new faces and a number of releases.
Two signings have come through the door with Mark Sykes from Oxford United and Luton Town’s Kal Naismith before the transfer period had even started.
Kane Wilson, who won the League Two Player of the Year and was named in two Team of the Season’s has followed suit in what has been a fantastic start to the summer.
A feeling of optimism is being felt around Ashton Gate as the Robins hope to improve on their 17th-placed finish. As well as incomings, there have been no major departures and whilst there is speculation in Alex Scott and Antoine Semenyo leaving, it is just that at the moment.
Han-Noah Massengo’s status is probably the only pressing matter in terms out of outgoings and whilst he is a talented player, Nigel Pearson will want a committed squad for his second full season in charge.
Players are due back for the start of pre-season this week and already there is an excitement being felt that this could be a better campaign than the two that have just passed.
The fixture release day is now under two weeks and City’s first competitive match will be at the end of July.
There is still time for things to change and City aren’t done in the window yet with a centre-midfielder on the agenda but other than that, business could be done if they can find, identify and sign that target early.
With almost three signings through the door, take a look at what could be City’s best XI for the 2022/23 campaign.
1. GK: Daniel Bentley
Entering a big year at City with his contract coming to an end next summer. Captain of the team but had a spell out of the side in January and February. Seemed to be different in March and April, kicking the ball long whilst also being good in possession of the ball. | Rogan/Fever Pitch Photo: Rogan/Fever Pitch
2. RWB: Kane Wilson
Recruiting the League Two Player of the Year on a free transfer can be seen as a real good piece of business. Wilson’s showreel of goals and assists last year impressed many and there is a hope he can do it at a higher level. Right wing-back was a problem last year and now City might have their solution. | Getty Images Photo: Pete Norton/Getty Images)
3. CB: Kal Naismith
Utility man Naismith has come off a good campaign with Luton Town who were annoyed to see him go. He’s played everywhere during his career but last season he played centre-back and that is where he’ll probably play. Nigel Pearson spoke of needing some Championship experience to help with a young squad and Naismith has that in abundance. | Getty Images Photo: Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
4. CB: Rob Atkinson
Expect more from Atkinson this year after encountering some difficulties in his first campaign. Atkinson looked a threat in both boxes and was the highest-scoring centre-back at the club. | Getty Images Photo: Dan Isitene/Getty Images