We look ahead to tonight's clash at Ashton Gate
BRISTOL CITY V GILLINGHAM
Captial One Cup, Ashton Gate
Tuesday 14 August
Kick-Off, 7.45pm
Team News:
Both sides will be competing in their first competitive game of the new season but neither manager will have a fully fit squad to choose from.
Deon Burton is not available for the game as he has been refused international clearance. Jack Payne (illness) will be out for at least another 10 days, and Joe Martin is spending time at home with a new born baby.
As a result 16-year old Charlie Webster has been called up to the first team squad for the first time, but is more than likely to take a seat on the substitute’s bench.
As for City they will have only two fit strikers to pick from.
Ryan Taylor picked up an ankle injury in training earlier this week and is likely to miss out – Jon Stead and Brett Pitman are likely to partner each other in attack.
Midfielder Jody Morris could make his debut.
Martin says:
In build up to the clash at Ashton Gate the manager says he is hoping to mark his birthday with a place in the second round of the League Cup before Bradford visit MEMS Priestfield on Saturday.
He said: “The squad is ready, they can all play and I believe they will all play a part. There are a lot of games coming thick and fast and the squad will be needed.
“We’ve got a hard cup game away from home but I think all of them can play in the team and they all know what they are doing.”
We’ve met before…
The two sides have clashed in no less than 54 matches. Of those City have the upper hand with 22 victories to their name, the Gills have won 18 times, and the remaining 14 ties have resulted in a draw.
The last match the two sides contested in saw the Gills run out 1-0 winners at Priestfield on April 9 2007 with Dean McDonald scoring early in the second half.
Colours:
Bristol City will wear their all red home kit while the Gills are expected to wear their brand new away kit of blue shirts with red sleeves, blue shorts and blue socks.
Officials:
Referee: David Coote
Assistants: David Woolford and Christopher Powell
Fourth Official: Neil Radford
We would like to remind fans that supporters can pay for tickets on the night from the away turnstiles in the Wedlock Stand.