Released Bristol City star considered for free transfer move to Championship rivals

Ben Sheaf has suffered an injury setback after being forced off against Oxford United last week. He was absent for their game against Norwich City at the weekend, and now Mark Robins is considering dipping his toes in to the free agent market after the summer window slammed shut.

According to Daily Mail sports journalist Tom Collomosse, the Sky Blues are mulling over whether to sign Matty James, who is a free agent after his departure from Ashton Gate in the summer. James is currently training with his former club Leicester City to maintain his fitness.

James left Bristol City alongside Andy King who retired and Andi Weimann who signed for Blackburn Rovers. When their departures were announced in mid-May, manager Liam Manning said: ““The players departing have all been fantastic servants to this club.

“They are all top professionals and have all made their mark at Bristol City. I wish them the very best for their future.”

James has an abundance of Championship experience under his belt having played just under 250 times in English football's second tier. He was a part of the Leicester City side that won the Championship title in 2013/14 under former Robins boss Nigel Pearson. In his final season in the West Country, he made 43 appearances across all competitions, earning 35 starts.

James has already played for Coventry before having joined them in the 2020/21 season. He helped the East Midlands outfit to a 16th placed finish in what was their first season back in the Championship.

Should he decide to return to Coventry, he won't be afforded the opportunity to receive a warm welcome at the Gate, as they have already played each other in both the Championship and the Carabao Cup. The next time the two sides will meet is at the Coventry Building Society Arena in January 2025.