Bristol City are seriously showing their intentions to be in the mix for a top six place by the end of the season.
With 10 games played, things start to get serious and with the Robins sitting in 6th place in the Championship at the moment, they will be confident that they can be one of the surprise packages in the division.
Since Lee Johnson took over the helm at Ashton Gate last season, he has re-ignited the side's confidence and has got them playing exciting football.
He’s also made some excellent signings in Tammy Abraham this summer, who is having an unbelievable season so far for the Robins.
Other signings such as Lee Tomlin and Gary O’Neil are also proving to be excellent signings.
However, once the January transfer window opens in the New Year, Johnson will certainly want to delve into the market for players, as his aim will ultimately be the play-offs.
As players come in, there is the cost that fringe players slide down the pecking order and that means offloading some fringe players out of the squad.
Football League World Writer, Ashley Williams identifies THREE players that the club may need to say bye to…
Aaron Wilbraham
If Tammy Abraham continues his red-hot form, then it seems that Wilbraham will not get a look into the squad at Ashton Gate.
At the age of 36-year-old, the forward is past his best days and if they were to go for another striker in January to help take the pressure for goals off Abraham, then the veteran forward to likely to be shipped out of the exit doors at Ashton Gate.
Adam Matthews
Lee Johnson highly regards Adam Matthews as a great full back, but what lets him down is his consistency and he doesn’t produce enough stand-out performances for the Robins.
Matthews has flattered to deceive since returning to Bristol, sustaining a hamstring injury in a content against Newcastle, which Johnson attributed directly to a lack of training in pre-season.
City's head coach was none too pleased when Matthews was side-lined for three to four weeks and went public in airing his frustration.
He may be given more of a chance, but if he doesn’t improve his match fitness soon, then Johnson could terminate his loan.
Josh Brownhill (Loan)
Brownhill made the switch to Ashton Gate for a free transfer this summer, but he has hardly set the world alight since his move from Lancashire.
Brownhill has made a total of six appearances for the Robins this season, but he is way behind in the pecking order for a starting spot in midfielder for Johnson’s side.
A possible loan move in January could be on the cards for the midfielder.
Bristol City fans… Will these THREE players leave in January? Are they considered fringe players? Would you swap them for another signing? Let us know in your thoughts and opinions below!