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.”
9. CM: Gerry Gow
ChatGPW explanation: Gow was a tough-tackling midfielder with excellent ball-winning ability and an eye for goal. He played a crucial role in Bristol City’s promotion to the top-flight of English football in 1976, and he was also a key player in the club’s run to the League Cup semi-finals in the same season. Gow was known for his exceptional work rate, his competitive spirit, and his leadership qualities on the pitch. He was also a fan favourite, and his passionate performances endeared him to the Bristol City faithful. | Getty Images Photo: Duncan Raban/Allsport/Getty Images
10. Winger: Scott Murray
ChatGPT Explanation: Murray was a skillful and versatile player who could play on either wing or as a striker. He possessed excellent dribbling ability, pace, and was a potent goal threat. He played a key role in Bristol City’s promotion to the second tier of English football in 1998 and was a consistent performer for the club during his time there. Murray’s connection with the Bristol City fans was also notable, as he was a local hero and a fan favourite. He was known for his passionate performances, his work ethic, and his leadership qualities both on and off the pitch. Overall, Murray’s longevity at the club, his impressive performances, and his connection with the fans make him a strong candidate for a place in a Bristol City all-time best 11. | Getty Images Photo: Julian Finney/Getty Images
11. ST: Bob Taylor
ChatGPT explanation: He is regarded as one of the most prolific goalscorers in the club’s recent history. Taylor was a natural finisher with excellent movement and a keen eye for goal. He was a key player in Bristol City’s promotion to the second tier of English football in the 1997-98 season, scoring 29 goals in all competitions. Taylor’s goalscoring exploits made him a fan favourite at Bristol City, and his partnership with fellow striker Tony Thorpe was a key factor in the club’s success during that period. | Getty Images Photo: Ben Radford/Getty Images
12. ST: Andy Cole
ChatGPT explanation: He was a prolific scorer throughout his career, and he went on to play for some of the biggest clubs in English football, including Manchester United and Arsenal. Despite his brief stint at Bristol City, Cole’s impact on the club was significant, as he helped the team avoid relegation from the second tier of English football. His goal-scoring exploits during that period were crucial to the club’s survival, and he remains a popular figure among Bristol City fans. | Manchester United via Getty Imag Photo: John Peters/Manchester United via Getty Images