Lee Johnson has said that he believes Bristol City are still in the race for automatic promotion, according to the Bristol Post.

Bristol City currently sit in the last play-off spot in sixth place with 50 points to their name from 30 league games.

However, it has looked increasingly likely so far this campaign that West Bromwich Albion and Leeds United would both run away with automatic promotion.

In spite of that, in recent weeks, both sides have faltered. Bristol City now sit just five points off Leeds in second place.

Johnson spoke in Tuesday's pre-match press-conference ahead of their game on Friday night against Birmingham City, discussing City's promotion push, where he made the bold claim.

"We’re in the mix not only for play offs but for top two. Our home form now is going to be the difference whether we achieve our goals or not," Johnson said to the Bristol Post.

"We know what we’ve got a what we’re working with. We’ve got to live like brothers for the next three months. It’s more a sprint than a marathon. There will be hurdles along the way."

A total of 20 points are needed to match their points tally from last season - 70. With 16 games left to play, that total looks likely to be surpassed.

To add some perspective, Derby County sneaked into last season's top six with 74 points.

It has helped that Bristol City have regained their composure in recent weeks.

The Robins have won three league games on the bounce after a dip in form over the festive period, and Lee Johnson has said he has always been one to look back on previous experiences in order to move forward.

"You’re always learning from your experiences. Whether it’s young players going to stadiums for the first time, feeling that pressure on and off the pitch. Inevitably it’s about getting the process right," the Robins boss added.

QUIZ: Can you name the last 12 Bristol City players to wear the No. 9 shirt?

The Verdict

It is a very bold claim from Lee Johnson, who may face some criticism from Bristol City fans for his comments, considering his side have only recently recovered from a poor December that saw four straight league defeats.

On the other hand, it is not an outrageous thing to say. The Robins are five points off the automatic places, and as we know, stringing together a couple of wins in the Championship can lift teams up the table considerably.

The BS3 side will be looking to make it five league wins on the bounce this Friday.