Bristol City predicted XI vs QPR as Liam Manning to make key change in first game - gallery

Bristol City face a trip to EFL Championship strugglers QPR on Saturday afternoon, in what will be Liam Manning's first match in charge of the Robins.

The ex-Oxford United boss was appointed on Tuesday following the departure of Nigel Pearson, and he will be hoping to get off to a positive start before going into an international break.

A run of five defeats in seven matches played its part in Pearson's sacking, however, last weekend's win over Sheffield Wednesday was more like it for City, and they'll be confident of making it back-to-back wins come Saturday.

The Robins are boosted by several players returning from injury of late; Zak Vyner, George Tanner and Kal Naismith all came back in some capacity against the Owls, and with another week's training under their belts, will be ready to fire against the Hoops.

Rob Atkinson and Ayman Benarous have also been pictured in training, which is welcome news for City, although it's unlikely that either of them will be involved. The match will also come too soon for Nahki Wells, who is still recovering from a foot injury, as well as Joe Williams.

QPR will be without Morgan Fox, as well as Ilias Chair, who is suspended after receiving his fifth booking of the season against Rotherham United.

Last season, City ran out 2-0 winners in this fixture, courtesy of goals from Mark Sykes and Sam Bell. Both are likely to feature tomorrow, and will be chomping at the bit to etch their names on the scoresheet once more.

Below is how I think Manning will set up in his first game in charge...