One small step for Nigel Pearson, one giant leap for Bristol City. Well, not quite as the historical implications of the Robins finishing mid-table in the Championship are not quite grandiose as the origins of that quote.
However, while it may seem an underwhelming league position in a vacuum (of which space is, of course), it still represented a definitive shift forwards for the club. They bettered their points total, goal difference, goals scored and goals against of the previous campaign and despite threatening to do so on a few occasions, were never in any real danger of relegation.
More academy players were integrated into the first-team squad, the wage bill was further reduced and Nigel Pearson successfully navigated some very choppy waters around December to create a new sense of calm, the Robins go into the summer with a feeling of optimism and excitement.
To get a read on sentiment within the fanbase regarding the last nine months and what they think is missing from the squad as the transfer window approaches, we spoke to 10 supporters for their take on matters on and off the field.
How would you rate City’s 2022/23 season out of 10?
Jamie Barresi, 27, Midsomer Norton: “At the start of the season, a realistic benchmark for myself would have been a mid table finish, so to achieve this and having a somewhat solid season I’d say it was a 6/10. Plenty of room for improvement however, foundations being laid ready to hopefully push on.”
Matt Burke, 37, Yate: “7 - I feel the club made steady improvements this year. We've been inconsistent at times, and injuries to key players didn't help at the key time.”
David Elstone, 60, Puriton: “I would rate the season at 6/10. We finished roughly where I expected we would. However, Nigel Pearson has developed a real identity based around genuine pace. It has been fantastic to see him develop so many young players who will only get better.”
Billy Aris, 18, South Gloucestershire: “7/10, we were really strong at some points but ultimately for how well we played and some of the games we dropped points it’s a little dissapointing we were never in the play-off mix.”
Chris Rose, 50, Keynsham: “A 6 from me. There was a real mixed bag from City this season. Showed real quality at times but too many poor performances thrown in. I do definitely feel we've progressed since Pearson took over, though.”
Tom Howell, 29, Frampton Cotterell: “I actually think this season has been a pretty positive one overall and would give it a 7. All I ask for is that the team is competitive in the league and that there’s progress on last season, both of which I think were true of this season. We didn’t quite have the squad ready for a serious play-off push or promotion and the league is getting tighter and more competitive every season, so I think our ultimate position was a fair one.”
Jack Buchanan, 18, Bedminster: “A 7/10, I feel as though we've shown good progression on and off the pitch yet again without spending huge amounts of money. The emergence of Sam Bell and Tommy Conway as first-team regulars has also been a huge positive.”
Dave Featherstone, 52, Downend: “7/10 – as the foundations of the rebuild begin to set firm, we have seen a season of ups and downs, but apart from the period around the World Cup break we never really had to look over our shoulders at the relegation spots. Coming out of the January window we saw a good unbeaten run that was halted by injuries to key players and a relaxing end of season run-in as mid-table was achieved. That’s quite a successful season in my eyes as it really allows us to kick-on next season.”
Kory Cook, 19, Manchester: “Probably a 7. I'd have taken 14th prior to the start of the season, but given the couple of good runs we had at the start and middle of the season, I ended up being a little disappointed that we didn't push for the play-offs.”
Rob Palmer, 55, Portishead: “7/10. I've loved so many academy players being part of the first-team squad. You can see the DNA Nige is looking to create, it’s exciting to see it evolve and develop. It’s also good to see the finances being controlled with the last pre-Covid contracts expiring now.”
What impressed you the most about the campaign?
Jamie Barresi: “The desire and belief in the second half of the season, the grit and determination to grind out results. Christmas was the turnaround where there were many calls for Pearson out, however, the belief shown at Coventry to grind out a draw put the team in good stead to go on an impressive unbeaten run in both the league and cup.”
Matt Burke: “I've been impressed with how well the young players have taken the step up to first-team football, they seem to have just seamlessly fitted in. That’s not really happened in the past so much, or at least not this many all at once.”
David Elstone: “It has to be the development of the youngsters who have established themselves into the first team.”
Billy Aris: “The amount of young players that have come through and gone from unproven to strong squad players or regular starters.”
Chris Rose: “The inclusion of so many youngsters that have come through the academy. Brian Tinnion and his team are doing an amazing job but credit also has to go to Pearson for putting his trust in these youngsters. There are plenty of managers who wouldn't.”
Tom Howell: “The development of the young players in the squad has been excellent. I think the speed at which Sam Bell, Tommy Conway, Cam Pring, George Tanner and of course Alex Scott have become so solid and reliable is really impressive. I’ll also single out Zak Vyner who for me was player of the season, and was the most consistent and most improved.”
Jack Buchanan: “City's defence throughout this season as I felt a lot more confident compared to last year. I think this is likely due to the players gaining more experience on last year due to the number of games they've now played for the club and keeping their concentration in the latter stages has been a welcome change.”
Dave Featherstone: “The ability to make players better. The likes of Zak Vyner and Cam Pring had stellar seasons and improved significantly. Rob Atkinson had grown in confidence, now fully believing that he is a top player at this level after a short spell out of the team probably highlighting Pearson’s (and his staff) man-management and ability to develop the players technically, physically and mentally.
"The progress of Tommy Conway, the successful introduction of Sam Bell into the team and the embedding of Mark Sykes who I’ll admit wasn’t a signing I was hugely excited about last summer, are all huge positives, and I’ve not even mentioned Alex Scott!”
Kory Cook: “The obvious answer is the implementation of the youngsters, which is becoming a common theme every season. Tommy Conway especially has been a revelation and looks more than good enough to push 20 goals next season, should he stay fit. Sam Bell had a brilliant second half of the season but still has a lot to learn to become a regular starter for me.”
Rob Palmer: “I was most impressed with the aspects highlighted above. The January window was impressive in terms of departures as well as the accelerated arrivals.”
And what did you find most disappointing or frustrating?
Jamie Barresi: “The most frustrating part would have been the run up towards Christmas where it was obvious to see a back three was not working. Pearson was reluctant to change however, once we did change both performances and results improved. You often look back at moments like this and think what could have been if we adapted slightly earlier.”
Matt Burke: “ Injuries again, while not as bad as in the past we just lost those key players at the wrong time. Although, I do think losing Andi Weimann for a period forced Pearson to change the formation.”
David Elstone: “Before Christmas I started to question Nigel. The games against Lincoln City and the infamous Boxing Day match against West Brom were truly dreadful. We must iron out those inconsistencies next season.”
Billy Aris: “Our inability to kill off games and easily beat teams that we are much better than. The games against Reading (H) and Huddersfield (A) spring to mind, we had plenty of chances against teams that we were dominant against but failed to break them down.”
Chris Rose: “I was disappointed Antoine Semenyo left although I totally understood why. I think probably our inconsistency pre-Christmas was disappointing however it felt like that improved as the season progressed.”
Tom Howell: “Our inconsistency is the biggest frustration, and I think in what turned out to be a fairly open fight for play-offs in the end, it’s frustrating that just a few more wins and a more consistent run and we could have crept into contention. The Lincoln game in the League Cup was also a nightmare and a real low point.”
Jack Buchanan: “Our barren run of form from late-September to late-December is the most frustrating thing about the season for me as for some reason we just seemed to completely forget how to play football at times and it started to drag us towards a relegation battle before the unbeaten run at the turn of the year.”
Dave Featherstone: “The lack of depth in the squad that cost us momentum and therefore finishing a good few places higher. I totally get the reasons, I totally support the reasons too, but it was still frustrating, especially when you look at the table and see that we weren’t a million miles away from being in the mix, even if that was extending the season into the last two or three games.”
Kory Cook: “As previously discussed, given the start to the season we made, and the run after Christmas, I can’t help but be a little disappointed that we didn't push those play-offs closer. It was really there for the taking and in one-off games, we more than matched the teams that went on to be promoted, or make the top six.”
Rob Palmer: “It was frustrating that we couldn’t compete and deliver to make a run at the play-offs especially when you look at what Coventry and Luton have achieved.”
What was your favourite moment of the season?
Jamie Barresi: “Probably Tommy Conway scoring against Cardiff at home. It’s always great to see one of your own score against a rival. I really think he could kick on next season and get 15 league goals.”
Matt Burke: “The Manchester City game probably, and it's more of a personal reason because I got to take my footy-obsessed son, and to see the excitement he had in seeing some of the best players in the world was a wonderful feeling.”
David Elstone: “Has to be the home win over Cardiff, followed by Sam Bell’s goal at Swansea.”
Billy Aris: “The whole FA Cup run. I love how much it was down to our academy players and the fact that it allowed a few of them to really push on and prove themselves.”
Chris Rose: “The win against Cardiff and then West Brom in the FA Cup stood out for me. Obviously playing Man City was a great occasion and putting in a decent performance made it even more enjoyable.”
Tom Howell: “Aside from finally getting a penalty, I’d have to say the Man City game. Seeing what this Man City team are on track to do this season makes you appreciate how well we did, and I was very proud to be a Bristol City fan that evening.”
Jack Buchanan: “Rob Atkinson's goal against Cardiff to put us two goals to the good as it all but confirmed a derby day victory back in August.”
Dave Featherstone: “I think it was Blackburn (A) early season. We absolutely hammered them 3-2 (!), it really should’ve been 5 or 6. They couldn’t cope with Alex Scott, they couldn’t cope with the pockets of space he found Andi Weimann in, and they couldn’t cope with Tommy Conway and Nahki Wells. The Conway stooping far-post header from a Weimann cross after Scott had dribbled out of trouble was my favourite moment.”
Kory Cook: “A standout for me is the win over Swansea in the FA Cup replay in South Wales. That really got us out of the rut we were in at the time, and was the start of an almost 15-game unbeaten run, and what a moment for Sam Bell, who lived every City fan's dream that night. The home game of that tie was a big one too, as that was when we decided to go to 4-3-3, which changed our season really.”
Rob Palmer: “Loved seeing us compete against Man City, the atmosphere in the build up and the overall size of the crowd. The scarves also created a great spectacle."
Who was your favourite player to watch?
Jamie Barresi: “I think most City fans would say this but Alex Scott! I’m convinced he’s going to the very top, I remember his debut against Blackpool the season before and turning to a mate and saying we’ve got a player here. His technical ability is on another level, he makes the game look easy at times. It’s been a pleasure watching him.”
Matt Burke: “Alex Scott, obviously. He is going to be a superstar, and it's been a privilege to watch him play. I don't think we will appreciate quite how good he is until he's much older.”
David Elstone: “Cam Pring got better and better as the season progressed.”
Billy Aris: Cam Pring. He is so aggressive as a full-back and always drives forward and creates something, as well as being rapid and very good in a tackle.”
Chris Rose: “It's got to be Alex Scott. He makes it look so effortless at times and I'm struggling to think of another City player with that much raw ability. Getting the Championship Young Player of the Year was the icing on the cake.”
Tom Howell: “Of course Alex Scott who is unbelievable, and one of the most exciting and talented players I’ve seen at City, but I would also say Matty James. James has got better and better throughout the season and I love to watch how he controls the midfield and puts in a shift in every game. Honourable mention to Antoine Semenyo as well who was so exciting to watch, and I’m gutted he’s gone.”
Jack Buchanan: “It's almost the stock answer at this point but my favourite player to watch throughout the 2022/23 campaign was by far Alex Scott, the talent he has at such a young age is incredible and I don't think we'll ever see better at that age in a City shirt.”
Dave Featherstone: “On the ball its Alex Scott, he’s just a joy to watch. But I spend a lot of time watching Matty James, especially out of possession. He’s a master at positioning himself in the right place.”
Kory Cook: “Alex Scott, without doubt. I’m sure most, if not all, answers will be the same, but that boy is something special. So mature both in and out of possession, and so much conviction when on the ball. To win Championship Young Player of the Year ahead of someone who cost Manchester United £40m a couple of years ago is some feat in itself.”
Rob Palmer: “Alex Scott - no words needed.”
Which player surprised you the most?
Jamie Barresi: “For me, Zak Vyner. He didn’t have the best of seasons before but he’s been a true leader in the squad this year and has been exceptional. For a player that potentially could have been out the door at the start of the season to being one of the first on the teamsheet shows his turnaround.”
Matt Burke: “Ooooooo Zak Vyner. Massively impressed with Zak, and so chuffed for him. He was out the door in pre-season and was for me our most consistent player this season.”
David Elstone: “Zak Vyner established himself as a first choice centre half after appearing to be on the way out last summer.”
Billy Aris: “Zak Vyner. Most people I know thought he would be off last summer and were surprised he was starting in August, but he is almost the first name on the team sheet now.”
Chris Rose: “Definitely Zak Vyner. I think you could be forgiven for thinking 12 months ago his future lay elsewhere. Too turn it around to not only cement his place in the starting line up but to get Players’ Player of the Year was an incredible display of mental fortitude and an example to any player who finds themselves out of favour.”
Tom Howell: “As mentioned before, Zak Vyner has had a really good season, and has turned into a proper leader in the heart of the team’s defence. I think Vyner always showed talent, but what has surprised me is his composure and leadership which I think will be a big factor next season.”
Jack Buchanan: “I think Zak Vyner was probably the surprise package of the season, he had a pretty poor 2021/22 season and I don't think anyone could have forseen him winning POTY come the end of the season.”
Dave Featherstone: “Zak Vyner. Not just the performance levels and cutting out errors, but the leader he became over the course of the season. There’s never been any doubt in my mind that he’s capable at this level, but mistakes and lack of physicality have held him back in my opinion. He seemed to shake that off during the Swansea game at home when Rob Atkinson withdrew just before kick-off and he was left to play between George Tanner and Cam Pring.
"On past form it wasn’t a back-three that gave you much confidence, but Zak stepped up, and led them through the game. It seemed to be the making of him and he really kicked on from that game. I wonder whether having the likes of Kal Naismith and Andy King alongside him in the preceding games rubbed off on him?”
Kory Cook: “Zak Vyner, who went from in no-one’s squad at the start of pre-season, to one of the first names on the team sheet by October. He all of a sudden looks captain material, alot stronger and seems to have matured, most importantly cutting out those mistakes he’d regularly made in years gone by.”
Rob Palmer: “Cam Pring made a great impact.”
What do you think the priorities should be in the summer transfer window?
Jamie Barresi: “I think we need to bring in a couple of central midfielders, we lacked depth in that department at times last season and potentially losing Scott would mean we would need at least two new faces. For me, a new goalkeeper also, although Max O’Leary is a good shot stopper I feel like we have weakened since the departure of Dan Bentley. I do think the rumoured return of Joe Bryan would be amazing, he has the ability to play anywhere on the left side so would provide quality and depth.”
Matt Burke: “Defenders, simple as that. Nigel has already hinted that that is where he is targeting and another goalkeeper would help too, and if we lose Scott, we will need to get a midfielder in or two.”
David Elstone: “If we are to make a serious challenge for the play-offs we must strengthen through the spine of the team. An experienced goalkeeper to challenge Max, at least one centre-half (even if we could keep Tomas Kalas), an experienced centre-midfielder and I would like to see a tall centre-forward who can hold the ball up and allows us to change our style of play when needed.”
Billy Aris: “Adding depth. We have a really strong core, just think we need a couple of defenders and midfielders to add numbers. I wouldn’t say no to another keeper and a winger to add some competition, too.”
Chris Rose: “I think we have excellent strikers but we would benefit from having a more physical option up front. We're a bit lightweight in that area. Assuming Scott leaves, we will need another midfielder.”
Tom Howell: “As decent as James, Joe Williams and Kal Naismith have all been this season, the midfield needs reinforcements. I’d like to see an aggressive midfield player who could be more attacking but who could win the ball back as well when needed, much like we had with Josh Brownhill. If Kalas leaves this summer another defender will be crucial as well.”
Jack Buchanan: “I feel that we need to strengthen in defence and midfield mainly with the likely departures of Tomas Kalas and Jay Dasilva leaving us fairly weak for cover in the defensive areas. An Alex Scott replacement is also almost certain to be required once a move for him is confirmed.”
Dave Featherstone: “Aside from recruiting at centre-back and midfield, getting certain players tied down to longer contracts should be high up the list too, e.g. Vyner and Pring, and even Conway and Bell.”
Kory Cook: “For me, when fully fit, we've shown we have a team that can push the top six already, so I don't actually think a lot is needed in terms of guaranteed starters. Strength in depth is what I'd be looking at, and the additions of McCrorie and Bryan certainly give us that. Players who have quality and can play multiple positions to a good standard is a must.”
Rob Palmer: “Defenders, a high-energy midfielder and possibly a goalkeeper.”
Are there any specific players you think City should be targeting?
Jamie Barresi: “I think the two big rumoured ones - Bryan and McCrorie - would show great intent and promise. They would add quality to the squad. I do like the look of Michael Cooper, the goalkeeper from Plymouth, he had a very good season before injury. Another keeper I like the look of is James Trafford who has been on loan at Bolton Wanderers from Man City. Again, he has had a solid season.”
Matt Burke: “I'm not sure on specific targets. I'd be chuffed with some of the players linked and due to sign. I'll throw a goalkeeper out there who has potential - Toby Savin from Accrington Stanley, but I think could be a promising signing.”
David Elstone: “I will leave the recruitment to the experts! Doubtless Brian Tinnion will pick up some bargains.”
Billy Aris: “Aside from Bryan and McCrorie who seem very close, I think we should be looking at Ronnie Edwards from Peterborough United, or Luca Connell at Barnsley.”
Chris Rose: “I thought Ashley Barnes being a relatively local lad would have been a great addition but he's now gone to Norwich. Obviously the talk has been about Joe Bryan and being that he's one of my favourite-ever City players I'd love to see him return.”
Tom Howell: “My best mate is a Notts County fan so won’t thank me for this, but I’d say their striker Macaulay Langstaff is made for the Championship and would be a great addition to complete our potential forward line. How Conor Hourihane is playing in league one I do not know. He was in the League One Team of the Season, has great experience and could still do a job in the Championship.”
Jack Buchanan: “In terms of specific players Ross McCrorie and Joe Bryan look to be all but confirmed to be coming in over the coming weeks. I'd also like to see us go in for Jake O'Brien following our rumoured interest in January.”
Dave Featherstone: “Ignoring the rumours going around re Joe Bryan and Ross McCrorie which would be a great way to start the window if they happen, and working off an assumption that we aren’t going to spending huge sums, there are some players in League One / Two who I think would be good additions:
Eiran Cashin (Derby County) – centre-back
Jason Knight (Derby County) – centre-midfield
Archie Collins (Exeter City) – centre-midfield
Junior Tchamadeu (Colchester United) – right-back
They are the right age/experience profiles to come straight in, or in Junior’s case, to be developed here. I don’t think the forward line is a huge priority.
Kory Cook: “I’d expect us to go back in for Jake O’Brien who we almost signed in January, and McCrorie and Bryan look like they’re pretty much done, but aside from that there’s not many players in particular who stand out as players we should be going in for. Jerry Yates would be a good option if we look to strengthen up top , as I'm sure he’d be available at a cut price given Blackpool’s relegation.”
Rob Palmer: “Joe Bryan, but other than that - trust Nige!”
What are your views on the governance of the club?
Jamie Barresi: “I think the club is being run very well. There is a clear plan moving forward and clear structure in terms of the long-term finances. I think it was integral to reduce the wage bill as previous accounts highlighted. It’s very easy to say we should be spending x amount on this player etc but for me the most important thing is developing within. You could argue we have the best academy outside of the Premier League.”
Matt Burke: “I think the club is being run really well at the moment. We seem to have some sensible people in charge, and a no-nonsense manager. Things are looking very positive for us.”
David Elstone: “We are lucky to have Steve Lansdown and I wouldn’t dream of criticising his governance of the club.”
Billy Aris: “I think that everything Steve Lansdown is doing is with the right intentions and the correct way to do it. His only previous criticisms from me was about who he employed on the football side, but right now i think we have a really good CEO and manager.”
Chris Rose: “I feel the club is in great hands. Not every decision the Lansdown's have made has worked out but when I look at the owners some other clubs have I feel very lucky to have them.”
Tom Howell: “I think we’re lucky. Looking around at some other clubs we’ve definitely got stability. I think as long as there is honest and open communication about what the club want to achieve that’s the main thing. If the ambition really is to get promoted, then we may need to start taking some more risks, particularly in the transfer market, but it’s clear we have good owners who will always try to protect the club’s future.”
Jack Buchanan: “I feel as though the club is ran well overall, despite the odd claims Lansdown “doesn’t care about the football”. He’s written off incredible amounts of debt over the last few years to help keep the club afloat and turned us into a ‘Premier League-ready’ football club with the redeveloped stadium and training ground.”
Dave Featherstone: “That’s an interesting one, and not something I’m massively aware of unless it’s FFP-related. There were a few murmurs of discontent re the collaboration (lack of) with the new kit/supplier, but I never really looked too deeply into it. Financially we seem to have got our act together so that’s good, and one of the reasons I enter this summer with optimism. I think we need to see how Phil Alexander performs and communicates with us.”
Kory Cook: “I think the club is in great hands at the moment, and I have to say Richard Gould and Nigel Pearson deserve huge credit for getting us back in a stable financial position , because Mark Ashton left us in an absolute mess. Brian Tinnion being given a more prominent role around the club is brilliant to see, because not only is he a living legend, but also fantastic when it comes to recruitment, and he seems to have a really good working relationship with Nigel.”
Rob Palmer: “I think the governance has improved massively as I referred to earlier. The club is really well run now with a real buzz about, so I’m proud to be part of it. The way the club is being run, it feels like everyone is working to the same plan with a clear goal of being run within set financial parameters such as having a wage structure. The recruitment strategy is proactive and very clearly thought out. Overall it feels really exciting and I’m genuinely optimistic for the future of the club."
What (realistic) change or changes would you make to improve the matchday experience at Ashton Gate?
Jamie Barresi: “I think the whole debate regarding the location of the away fans. It’s been great having the re-emergence of A Block which has spiced the atmosphere on a match day. I also think more safe standing could be implemented, I just think the general culture of standing on the terraces adds that magic to the game.”
Matt Burke: “Half-times. We need a bit of entertainment, whether that's fans taking part in competitions, or getting younger fans involved somehow. I know they do stuff before the game but find it very boring.”
David Elstone: “I sat in the Dolman for the Women’s promotion match and thought the sound system was dreadful. We couldn’t hear any announcements, so I would suggest a new sound system would be money well spent.”
Billy Aris: "I think overall the matchday experience is great, especially compared to other clubs. Maybe bringing something at half-time, like we used to have the Dunder Challenge, but other than that it is really good.”
Chris Rose: “I really don't know, to be honest with you. The club, alongside the Robins Foundation have done so much in the last decade to improve the game day experience especially for youngsters. It's a wonderful place to be on a match day.”
Tom Howell: “They could start by putting Thatchers Blood Orange in the South Stand where it’s being advertised but not sold. I do think, though, that the match day experience is very good. Maybe more affordable hospitality options, but I think most things are pretty spot on at Ashton Gate.”
Jack Buchanan: “My main gripes are the prices of food and drink in/around the stadium. I’m also not a fan of the virtual season tickets that are being put in place for next season.”
Dave Featherstone: “Perhaps it’s me getting old, but I think the music volume pre-match is too loud, it kills the atmosphere. You don’t get that build-up, that crescendo of fan noise that we used to get. If you could ask the team to win every home game that would help too!”
Kory Cook: “I have to say, I don't think there are many grounds in the country that have a better matchday experience than Ashton Gate. Outside the ground there are numerous options for food and drink, along with entertainment and of course a fantastic sports bar which is popular. If I was being picky, I’d say the alcohol inside the ground could be improved, as they are all pre-poured and most of the time end up going flat by the time they are purchased.”
Rob Palmer: “Nothing extra for me, I enjoy it as it is.”
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