Lee Johnson once again faces a difficult season in the Sky Bet Championship, with Bristol City among the favourites for relegation.  

The Robins survived relegation last season, but were aided by the quality of both Tammy Abraham and Lee Tomlin, neither of who will be at Ashton Gate for the 2017/18 campaign.

The absence of Abraham and Tomlin means it is absolutely vital that Bristol can retain the service of both Aden Flint and Joe Bryan this summer, despite the defensive duo attracting interest from their Championship rivals.

Leeds United are reportedly interested in signing the duo, although Johnson has confirmed that the Robins have not received any bids for either Flint or Bryan.

Last season, Flint was a rock for Bristol in central defence, making 53 appearances across all competitions, including every fixture of the Championship campaign.

Bryan was equally impressive at left-back, featuring in 44 of the Robins’ 46 Championship fixtures.

Keeping the duo next season could be vital to Bristol’s chances of survival in the Championship, with Johnson’s side unable to lose anymore of their star men this summer.

There is no doubt that Johnson and Bristol will be entering the 2017/18 campaign with extreme caution, knowing that the coming season will be difficult, with the Championship becoming more competitive every single year.

After losing Abraham and Tomlin, it is vital that the Robins retain the service of both Flint and Bryan heading into the new season because without the pair, the club’s squad begins to lack any real quality.

Bristol City fans… How important do you think it is that your club retains the service of Flint and Bryan? Let us know your thoughts!