Clement Set to Overhaul City Squad as Deadline Nears
Dean Clement praised Roy Hodgson after the veteran coach returned to management with Bristol City. Clement joked his wife hopes for a quieter TV schedule late in life, but he said Hodgson’s presence offers inspiration.
Hodgson’s early impact
Hodgson has taken charge of the Robins until the end of the season. Bristol City have taken seven points from three matches and conceded one goal. Clement described those results as impressive and a reminder of Hodgson’s experience.
From planned youth coach to unexpected rise
Clement outlined how his career path changed. He had intended to spend 30 years as an Under-21 coach at Bruges, after being given a clear brief by the chairman and CEO.
He never planned to work abroad or chase trophies. Opportunities altered his route, he said, and he followed his instincts. Clement added that he loves football and the daily demands it brings.
Short-term targets and squad decisions
Immediate aims include more wins to lift mood after the derby defeat. Clement wants clearer evidence to inform his end-of-season squad choices.
He is working closely with Ben Knapper, Lee Dunn and Cole Grossman. The group must balance the desire to win with giving minutes to players who need assessing.
Training response and mentality
Clement praised the players’ reaction after the derby. There was clear disappointment, followed by focused debriefs and two tough physical sessions. A tactical day prepared the squad for the next fixture.
Selection scrutiny and transparency
Clement accepted questions about selection choices for the Ipswich game. He stressed that staff hold more information than supporters do. Full disclosure would risk revealing tactics and weaken players.
The manager said every phase of a game is reviewed. He urged a balanced view after wins and losses, avoiding extremes of hype or despair.
Injury news
- Ben Chrisene will see a specialist on Monday at Colney. Surgery on a long-running shoulder problem is likely.
- Gabe Forsyth faces further assessment after a setback from a knee injury sustained at Cardiff in November 2024. He was pictured on crutches.
- Papa Amadou Diallo (groin) and Jovon Makama (foot) have returned to light grass running. Their availability before season end remains uncertain.
- Matej Jurasek is further behind in rehabilitation and has not yet resumed outside work after a foot injury.
With the transfer deadline nears, Clement is planning an overhaul of the City squad. He said changes will be evidence-based and driven by the season’s findings.
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