Tomas Kalas injury update ahead of Bristol City’s FA Cup clash with Swansea City

Bristol City will be without club record signing Tomas Kalas for their FA Cup clash with Swansea City this weekend. The Robins host the Swans at Ashton Gate on Sunday afternoon, but will have to do without the Czech Republic international.

Kalas has been unavailable for selection for the last 11 matches with a calf problem, and that will be extended to 12 games on the weekend. The 29-year-old returned in October for two substitute appearances after a seven-month lay-off but then was sidelined once more after a complication with his injury.

“Tom is in a very positive frame of mind at the minute,” said Pearson to Robins TV. “He is still not quite ready to be back in the squad but he’s out on the grass now.

“He’s working very hard, he looks fit and hopefully when he’s back he’ll stay fit for the rest of the season.”

Kalas is one of several players out of contract at the end of the season, and Pearson did admit in December that his injury history would come in to consideration regarding a new deal. Contracts have been offered to seven players whilst three have been told that they do not have a future, and could leave in the January transfer window.

City at times have been short on options in defence with Kalas out at the same time as Kal Naismith, who missed almost two months of action. Naismith has since returned and has started each game since.

Under Pearson, City operate with a small squad, and if they are to preserve their second tier status they will need to avoid any injury crises. The former Leicester City manager has stated the importance however that Kalas can get the confidence to avoid any more set backs.

Pearson added: “It’s the most important thing that we go in the remainder of the season with players who have the durability to stay there.

“Because Tom has had such a frustrating time with injuries over eight months now and he was playing with discomfort before his operation.

“It’s really important for him he comes back from this with confidence in his own fitness too. It’s as important as him being available for us.”