As football remains on an indefinite halt, Last Word on Football have taken a look at the five players Bristol City could lose as free transfers this summer.
Players Bristol City Could Lose as Free Transfers This Summer
Poor Run of Form Before Season Suspension
The Robins were in a poor run of form before the season was suspended due to the coronavirus outbreak. They had to fail any of their last five games, and drew 1-1 with Fulham before the Championship was called to a halt.
As a result, manager Lee Johnson will be hoping that his players can regain their confidence before the season resumes.
Ashley Williams
The veteran defender is one of five first-team players out of contract at Ashton Gate this summer.
Despite only joining on temporary terms last summer, Williams has virtually been ever-present in the City defence. He has made 26 appearances so far this season, scoring twice.
A character with strong leadership, it may make sense to keep him around the squad for another season. His experience would prove valuable for younger players in the squad.
Niki Maenpaa
Following the arrival of Daniel Bentley at Ashton Gate, Maenpaa was demoted to second choice by Lee Johnson.
The 35-year-old has featured just three times this season, two of which were in the Championship.
Due to his role at the club and age, it would be a surprise if the Finnish goalkeeper was rewarded with a new contract. However, he may be held in a similar vain to his team-mate Williams, where his experience could prove vital if the Robins were to aim for promotion next season.
Korey Smith
Smith has seen his playing time decrease in the last two seasons under Johnson.
He has played just 14 times this season in all competitions, with his status in midfield gradually falling down the pecking order.
Still just 29 years old, he may opt to look for a new club to prove that he can still make an impact at Championship level.
Matty Taylor
A controversial signing from city rivals Bristol Rovers, Matty Taylor failed to make the jump up from League One to the Championship
Having scored 64 goals in three seasons with Rovers, Taylor moved across the city to make the next step in his career. However, he failed to continue his prolific record, and has scored just eight goals for the club.
As a result, Lee Johnson may look to offload the forward, who is currently on loan at Oxford United. It appears that League One is his level, as he has scored 16 goals in 33 appearances for Karl Robinson’s side this season.
Bailey Wright
The Australian defender is another loanee who is out of contract this summer.
Wright is currently out on loan with League One club Sunderland. Despite only making five appearances during his time at the Stadium of Light, the 27-year-old would like to make his move permanent, according to Chronicle Live.
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