Bristol City will be without key midfielder Max Bird for their final Championship fixture against Stoke City, manager Roy Hodgson has confirmed. The club also provided a positive update regarding defender Cam Pring, who recently underwent successful ankle surgery following his withdrawal from last weekend's match.

The Robins are set to host Stoke City at Ashton Gate this Saturday lunchtime, concluding a mixed campaign in the Championship. Currently sitting 13th in the league table, Bristol City holds a four-point lead over 17th-placed Stoke City, aiming to finish the season strongly despite recent setbacks.

The team's last outing saw them fall to a defeat against Birmingham City at St Andrew's, a result that, while not significantly impacting their league position, came at an additional cost. It was during this match that Cam Pring sustained the ankle injury requiring surgical intervention.

Pring was substituted at half-time during the Birmingham clash, with Hodgson confirming post-match that the defender would require surgery. The procedure has now been completed, and initial reports from the club indicate a positive outcome for the 28-year-old. "He had it yesterday," Hodgson told Bristol Live, referring to the operation.

This injury update comes as Bristol City prepares for their last game of the season, with fans eager for positive news on player recovery as they look ahead to the next campaign. The absence of Max Bird will be felt, but the promising recovery of Cam Pring offers some relief for the club's defensive options.