Bristol City manager Lee Johnson has given his thoughts after defender Bailey Wright suffered a serious injury whilst out on loan with Sunderland.

He made the move to The Stadium of Light during the January transfer window, signing on loan until the end of the season, but limped off with an ankle injury during Saturday's 1-0 win over Oxford United.

Phil Parkinson confirmed on Wednesday that the 27 year-old is now expected to miss at least two months of action as he recovers from the knock.

Johnson was asked for his thoughts on the injury to his former club captain during his pre-match press conference on Wednesday afternoon.

"There’s not much you can say other than we're here for you mate," Johnson said, reported by Bristol Live (15:49).

"He’ll be gutted. He’s a strong character."

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Wright had made just three appearances for The Robins during the first-half of the season and had already racked up five for The Black Cats when he was forced off.

This weekend sees City clash with Championship leaders West Brom at Ashton Gate as they look to move closer to establishing themselves in the play-off places.

As things stand they sit in seventh, level on points with Preston, but will know that a win could see them rise as high as third if other results go their way.

The verdict

This is gutting news for Wright but, as harsh as it may sound, Bristol City can not let it distract them from their own priorities.

The Robins seem to be a long way from securing a spot in the top-six and will most likely have to stay at their very best until the end of the campaign.

They have adequate options at the back now so should not let this news throw them off their own stride.