The Robins enjoyed a mix campaign in their first season back in the Championship, but they look like a revitalised side under the helm of Lee Johnson.

The Robins looked destined for the drop half way through the season, who struggled to jump out of the bottom three.

However, when Lee Johnson took charge of his first game, the squad was injected with a broad amount of confidence - winning seven of their final 16 games of the year.

Some displays that really stood out for the Bristol supporters were from the back four, with the likes of Aden Flint and Nathan Baker producing consistent performances.

Even though, the South West side conceded 71 goals in total for the whole season, there was a major improvement in defence.

Lee Johnson will have a busy summer ahead of him and he will be setting his ambitions high after witnessing an exceptional second half to their campaign.

Football League World Writer, Ashley Williams identifies the dream Bristol City defence under Lee Johnson next season…

 

Aden Flint

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The central defender has been an influential figure for the Robins at the back, and his performances are seeing him being linked to the Premier League.

Sunderland are the latest side to express their interest, but Johnson should do everything in his power to keep him at the club for the new season.

As well as his excellent defensive displays, Flint offers a considerable attacking option after netting six goals this season.

Nathan Baker

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The Aston Villa centre back spent the whole of last season on loan at Bristol City, and impressed during his Ashton Gate stay.

He returned to parent club Villa in May, but Johnson is understood to be exploring the possibility of bringing the 25-year-old back to Bristol.

Although Baker has three years left to run on his contract at Villa Park, it is not known if he features in Di Matteo's plans for next season.

The young defender would be welcomed back with open arms at Ashton Gate and with the player in peak form, he will only continue to improve.

Adam Matthews

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The Sunderland right back had a successful loan spell at Ashton Gate towards the back end of last season, and Lee Johnson is keen sign the former Celtic man on a permanent deal.

The right back has a lot to offer to the Championship club, but Sunderland have proposed a swap deal for Matthews to return to Ashton Gate for Aden Flint to go in the opposite direction.

It is unlikely that Lee Johnson will consider this offer due to Flint’s influential displays.

However, if Bristol are given cash in the summer, then they should certainly consider putting in a suitable offer to Sunderland for Matthews, who are looking to offload the defender.

Reece Wabara

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The free agent has been on loan with Wigan Athletic and impressed hugely, as the Latics earned promotion to the Sky Bet Championship.

The Robins are keeping tabs on the defender, who is extremely versatile and an energetic player. The Robins have sent scouts to watch the former Manchester City player on a number of occasions this season.

Robins head coach Lee Johnson signed the Bromsgrove-born player on a short-term contract while in charge at Barnsley last summer.

Bristol City fans… Would you like to see this back four for your first game of the season? Will these players improve the defence? Let us know in your thoughts and opinions below!