Technology has become so advanced that you can now ask use artificial intelligence almost anything. ChatGPT has been set up by OpenAI and it is made to follow instructions and give in-depth answers when prompted.
With all this power at our disposal, we've asked the hard-hitting question of what is the best all-time Bristol City XI? It's going to differ from what era you watched the club, and football has changed considerably decade-by-decade, so it is all subjecitve.
Surprisingly the clubs all-time goal scorer John Atyeo, who has a statue outside of Ashton Gate, is not included in the team. He scored 351 goals for the club, and his exclusion is perhaps one of the decisions you'd raise your eyebrow at.
A surprise inclusion was Peter Shilton, who never actually played for the club. It’s perhaps best that the computer leaves things to the fans, and former players... We prompted them again and they ended up with Ray Cashley, which is a fair shout, but they’ve got a few things wrong and confused the achievements of others. Remember, it’s the computer and not us, who make the team and their explanations why! Let us know what your team is.
So, without further ado, here is the all-time Robins starting XI that ChatGPT provided us – there's some players of the past - but do any of the current crop make the grade?
Explaining their decision to go with a 4-4-2 formation, ChatGPT says: “This formation allows for a solid defense with two experienced central defenders in Bailey and Carey, as well as the tough-tackling Hunter and the reliable Shelton as full-backs. In midfield, Tainton and Gow could provide a solid defensive shield, while Tinnion and Murray would be able to create and score goals.
“Up front, Taylor and Cole could form a formidable partnership with their pace and clinical finishing. Of course, this is just one possible formation, and there are many other variations that could work depending on the players available and the style of play desired.”
1. CARDIFF - APRIL 6: Bristol City players Lee Peacock and Scott Murray celebrate victory after the LDV Vans Trophy Final match between Bristol City and Carlisle United held on April 6, 2003 at the Millennium Stadium, in Cardiff, Wales. Bristol City won the match and trophy 2-0. (Photo by Paul Gilham/Getty Images)
Getty Images
2. GK: Ray Cashley
Ray Cashley is another goalkeeper who is often mentioned among the best in Bristol City’s history because of his long and successful career with the club. Cashley was known for his commanding presence in the penalty area and his ability to make difficult saves. He was also a reliable and consistent performer for Bristol City. While there is no one “best” goalkeeper in Bristol City’s history, Ray Cashley’s achievements and impact on the club make him a strong candidate for consideration. | Getty Images Photo: South West Picture Agency (SWPA)/Daily Express/Hulton Archive/Getty Images
3. RB: Gary Shelton
ChatGPT explanation: Gary Shelton played over 300 games for Bristol City in the 1970s and was a consistent and reliable full-back. He was known for his excellent defending and was also an attacking threat from the wing-back position. He helped the team achieve promotion to the Second Division in the 1975-76 season and was a key member of the team that reached the semi-finals of the FA Cup in 1978-79. Shelton was highly regarded by Bristol City fans for his loyalty to the club and his commitment to the team. | Getty Images Photo: Harry Trump/Getty Image
4. CB: Louis Carey
ChatGPT explanation: Louis Carey is a former Bristol City captain and defender who played for the club for over 18 years, making over 650 appearances in total. He was a versatile defender who was capable of playing in any position across the back line, but he was primarily known for his performances as a centre-back. Carey was a loyal servant to Bristol City and was highly respected by the club’s fans for his commitment and dedication. He was a consistent performer who was able to read the game well and make timely interceptions and tackles. Carey was also a threat in the air, both defensively and offensively, and he was a reliable penalty taker. Carey’s leadership qualities and his ability to inspire his teammates on the pitch were highly valued by the club, and he was a popular figure both on and off the field. | Getty Images Photo: Stu Forster/Getty Images