3 free-agents that Bristol City should definitely consider and why | OneFootball

The Championship break came at a good time for Bristol City and should allow them a chance to regroup.

There were high hopes earlier in the season when the Robins were flying but they’ve been inconsistent in recent months and now find themselves in mid-table – just a point above the bottom three but only seven back from the play-off places.

Pearson has made it no secret that the South West club will be cash-strapped in the January window and so they may have to be creative to solve some of the issues in their squad.

With that in mind, here are three free agents that Bristol City should definitely consider and why…

Michael Hector

The defence has been a problem area for City this season – with the Robins conceding the fifth most goals in the Championship.

Nigel Pearson’s squad looks one centre-back light with injuries to the likes of Tomas Kalas and Kal Naismith meaning that he’s been forced to use full-backs Cam Pring and George Tanner in his back three.

Signing former Fulham and Sheffield Wednesday defender Michael Hector could help strengthen a fragile defence ahead of the second half of the season.

The 30-year-old was once considered among the best centre-backs in the division and was deemed good enough to serve as a backup for last season’s title winners Fulham so though his stock may have fallen, he could prove a smart addition and one worth considering.

Lukas Rupp

Midfield depth is another issue for City, who look at least one body short in the centre of the park with Han-Noah Massengo out of favour under Pearson.

Matty James has had his injury problems in the past while Joe Williams has to be carefully managed and there is a significant drop-off when Andy King steps in.

Though there are some promising young midfielders, such as Dylan Kadji, following in the footsteps of Alex Scott, they don’t quite look ready to play a significant role and drafting in an experienced head would make sense.

Lukas Rupp would offer just that and is available after leaving Norwich City in the summer.

The German may be 30 now but his 19 Premier League appearances for the Canaries last season indicate he should still be able to do a job in the Championship.

14 quiz questions about historic Bristol City moments – Can you score 14/14?

1 of 14

What year did Bristol City most recently win the EFL Trophy?

2011 2013 2015 2017

Dale Stephens

Dale Stephens is another midfielder with top flight experience that City should consider as they look to increase their options in central midfield.

The 33-year-old left Burnley in the summer after their relegation from the Premier League and is yet to find a new club.

Stephens certainly knows the Championship, with more than 150 second tier appearances under his belt, and could be a useful addition on a short-term deal.