Bristol City face a real battle to preserve their status as a Championship club.

The relegation battle continues tonight as they host play-off hopefuls Fulham at Ashton Gate.

Three points would be invaluable for Bristol City at this stage as it would help them pull five points clear of the drop zone with a game in hand still.

As it stands, just two points separate the Robins and Wigan, who occupy the final relegation spot.

Without main marksman and talisman Tammy Abraham, Bristol City face a real uphill struggle in the next few weeks as they scrap for survival in the second tier.

Whether they stay up or go down, though, they will face another battle in the summer: trying to keep their star players.

There are a number of talented individuals in this Bristol City side and other Championship clubs will be keen to poach some of their stars.

Here are 2 that Johnson must try to keep in the summer despite interest from elsewhere.

Lee Tomlin

Lee Tomlin has had an up and down time at Bristol City since making his stay at Ashton Gate permanent in the summer.

The attacking midfielder has been the subject of some criticism from the fans for performing below his expected standard, not looking bothered and there were also rumours that he had a bust-up with Lee Johnson.

There will be Championship clubs eager to take a punt on Tomlin in the summer, whether Bristol City stay up or go down, so it is up to them whether to cash in or persevere with the naturally talented 28-year-old.

Joe Bryan

Bristol City have had a difficult couple of seasons in the Championship but one player that has remained consistent throughout is Joe Bryan.

The academy graduate has been asked to play at left back, left wing back, central midfield and as a winger.

No matter where he has played, the 23-year-old has always put in 100%, never complained and churned out good performances so he will be a valuable asset for another club.