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.”
5. CB: Norman Hunter
ChatGPT explanation: Hunter was a tough-tackling defender with exceptional defensive skills, and he was known for his ability to read the game and make crucial tackles and interceptions. He was also a natural leader on the pitch and was often called upon to captain the team. Hunter’s experience and leadership qualities were crucial to Bristol City during his time at the club, as he played a key role in helping the team avoid relegation from the second tier of English football in the 1979-80 season. Overall, Hunter’s defensive prowess, his leadership qualities, and his impact on Bristol City during his time at the club make him a strong candidate for a place in a Bristol City all-time best 11. | Getty Images Photo: Ian Nicholson/WPA Pool/Getty Images
6. LB: John Bailey
ChatGPT explanation: John Bailey is a highly regarded former Bristol City defender who played over 500 games for the club between 1971 and 1984. He was an integral part of the Bristol City team that achieved promotion to the First Division in the 1975-76 season and also helped the team reach the semi-finals of the FA Cup in 1977-78. Bailey was known for his leadership qualities and his ability to organize and inspire his teammates on the pitch. Bailey’s defensive abilities were highly respected by Bristol City fans and he was widely regarded as one of the best defenders in the club’s history. He was a tough and tenacious defender who was able to win the ball back and start attacks from the back. His consistency and reliability were highly valued by the club, and he was a popular figure both on and off the pitch. | Getty Images Photo: Allsport UK
7. CM: Trevor Tainton
ChatGPT explanation: He played as a midfielder and was known for his versatility and work rate. Tainton was a key player in the Bristol City team that achieved promotion. Tainton’s consistency and reliability were highly valued by Bristol City fans and he was regarded as one of the club’s greatest ever players. He was also a capable captain and leader, having worn the armband for the club for several seasons. | Getty Images Photo: Allsport/Getty Images
8. 27 Jan 2001: Geoff Pitcher of Kingstonian tussles with Brian Tinnion of Bristol during the Bristol City v Kingstonian FA Cup Fourth Round match at Ashton Gate, Bristol. Mandatory Credit: Tom Shaw/ALLSPORT
Tinnion was a technically gifted player with excellent vision and passing ability. Tinnion’s passion for Bristol City and his connection to the club’s fans is also notable. His loyalty to Bristol City was evident throughout his playing career and beyond. | Getty Images