Fan Preview: Bristol City Vs Newcastle

Life as caretaker manager couldn’t possibly start worse for Keith Millen as his first task as temporary manager is to try and mastermind a victory over runaway leaders Newcastle. Former City manager Gary Johnson didn’t fancy the visit of the Magpies and made himself scarce after four and a half years of service to the Robins.

Newcastle could be officially promoted on Easter Monday if results go our way but in truth it’s looked like the Magpies have been too strong for the majority of teams in this league and struggling Bristol City are going to have to go some to spring a shock result.

Stand-in manager Millen will be without winger Jamal Campbell-Ryce who is suspended after being dismissed against Plymouth last time out. Also not available is Chris Iwelumo, who has returned to Wolves after his loan spell finished. In return for Iwelumo going back to Molineux, Mick McCarthy has sent giant striker Stefan Maierhofer to Ashton Gate. The 6 foot 8 inch Austrian will be looking to score on his debut and give Fabricio Coloccini a hard time, the Argentine is only 6 foot tall.

Newcastle will likely be without in-form striker Peter Lovenkrands, after the Dane picked up an ankle injury in the win over Scunthorpe, meaning Leon Best could be in line for a start. Alan Smith remains on the sidelines, as do Ameobi, S. Taylor and Williamson. Ameobi made a return to training this week but this game will come too soon for him.

Joey Barton targeted this game as a possible return game but he is expected to be given an extra week to get match fit. Jose Enrique, Wayne Routledge and Coloccini all came through the Scunthorpe game without incident and should all play again, Danny Simpson is carrying a knock but should play.

The only danger I can see for Chris Hughton’s men is the effect a new manager has on a team in their first game. The Robins could well be inspired to spring an upset because of Johnson’s departure but in truth, Newcastle are widely expected to have much too much strength and quality for City.

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