Nigel Pearson admits Bristol City “have to do better” following Sheffield United defeat

Bristol City travelled north to Bramall Lane this afternoon where they faced Sheffield United.

The Robins were unbeaten in their previous two Championship fixtures but failed to prevent defeat against the Blades - who saw new manager Paul Heckingbottom take charge following Slavisa Jokanovic’s departure.

Rhian Brewster handed the home side the lead shortly before half-time and, despite improvement in the second 45 minutes, the visitors were unable to respond and were soon punished with a second by Billy Sharp.

Nigel Pearson expressed his frustration at the ‘poor decisions’ made by his side as he spoke to City’s media team after the game.

He said: “Unfortunately we made some really poor decisions, like playing out when we didnt need to, and there second goal came from one of our poor decisions.

“Yes, it’s frustrating - a bit of a leveller for us. We know where we are.”

It wasn’t just the scoreline that the Robins had to worry about, with defender Nathan Baker hospitalised for the second time this season after being stretchered off with a head injury on the hour mark.

Baker will join City trio Joe Williams, Matty James and Andy King on the sidelines and Pearson has spoken on the impact of their growing injury list.

“We've got to look at trying to keep our players fit at the moment,” The 58-year-old admitted.

“It’s really important that players are ready to play again, even if they are not at their best because that’s where we are at the moment.

“In many ways it’s a test of their moral fibre for them - as well as their ability.”

The Robins will now turn their attention to next weekend’s league fixture as they host Derby County.