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BRISTOL CITY: Robins to step up search for new recruits as Championship season approaches.

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BRISTOL City are ready to step up their recruitment drive as they prepare for life back in the Championship. Manager Steve Cotterill and director of football Keith Burt have been working tirelessly behind the scenes to strengthen their squad since City won automatic promotion from League One at the end of last season.
Intent upon bolstering a squad that is light on numbers, the pair have been working their way through a list of possible acquisitions.

But now that Burt has returned from holiday and is back behind his desk, City are ready to hone their search in anticipation of bringing new faces to the club in July.

Still on holiday in the Middle East, manager Cotterill has spoken openly of the need to add to his squad ahead of the big kick-off on August 8.

Although there are a number of positions that require strengthening, his priority is to recruit two strikers and a central defender.

In terms of strikers, the Robins have already been linked with Brentford's Will Grigg and Sheffield United's Jamie Murphy, while Fulham's Matt Smith could yet emerge as a realistic target after enjoying a successful three-month loan spell at Ashton Gate last season.

At the other end of the pitch, defender Paul McShane this week became the latest player

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to be linked with the Championship newcomers. Although McShane did not feature on City's initial list of potential targets, that situation may well have changed following his release by relegated Hull City.The experienced Republic of Ireland international made 102 appearances for the Tigers between 2009 and 2015 and is sure to attract interest from Championship clubs after leaving the KC Stadium.

Cotterill and Burt are also in the market for a goalkeeper to provide competition for established number one Frank Fielding, while a central midfield player is also thought to feature on the wanted list following the decision not to offer Wade Elliott a new playing deal.

Although owner Steve Lansdown is prepared to make money available to fund new signings, City are prepared to play a waiting game in order to recruit the right players

Given that Cotterill is away on holiday for another week, it is unlikely any new additions will be unveiled before the players report back for pre-season training on July 1.


http://www.bristolpost.co.uk/BRISTO...new-signings/story-26723710-detail/story.html