Bristol City will once again be without key defender Noah Eile for Saturday’s Championship clash with Sheffield United at Ashton Gate. Manager Michael Skubala confirmed the centre-back is still not training due to a health issue, not a conventional injury.
Eile has missed both matches since the international break, the 1-1 draw at Charlton and Tuesday's 1-0 home defeat to Blackburn Rovers. Skubala revealed the player has managed only two or three training sessions in the last four weeks. "Noah's still not in training. He's poorly. We think we know what it is," the manager said at his Thursday press conference. The club is conducting further assessments, but a return date remains unclear.
Tolaj nearing return as others face setbacks
There is more positive news regarding summer signing Lorent Tolaj. The striker, who has missed the last two games with a minor knock, could be involved against the Blades. "Tolly might be Saturday. If not, I think Tolly will be [fit] for the next game," Skubala suggested. His potential return offers a welcome boost to the attacking options.
Midfielder Joe Williams remains unavailable, with Skubala estimating he could be sidelined for another week or two. Defender Rob Dickie is also out with an ankle injury. However, Luke McNally is fit and available to start after making his first competitive start of the season against Charlton last weekend.
Squad context ahead of United fixture
The Robins are looking to bounce back from the narrow midweek loss to Blackburn. Skubala reported the squad has only minor bumps and bruises following that game. Their goal difference stands at minus four. Sheffield United, managed by Chris Wilder, arrive at Ashton Gate sitting 15th after a defeat to Portsmouth on Wednesday.
Bristol City host the Blades on Saturday afternoon aiming to solidify their mid-table position. The full schedule for the busy period ahead is available on our fixtures page.
Background and full detail: thestar.co.uk
