Signs are looking positive for Bristol City fans as they approach the new season.

Youthful promising manager Lee Johnson ensured survival last year and seems set on helping City push on up the table to compete for promotion next season.

The recruitment drive is in full swing now as the Robins have confirmed three new signings already and have been linked with a number of other exciting players.

Lee Johnson is looking to revolutionise Bristol City from second tier relegation fodder to a team that can compete at the top of the Championship for a place in England's top flight.

In order to achieve this mammoth task - however - Johnson will be reliant on a core group of reliable players who can consistently churn out effective performances for him each week and guide his side up the league table.

Here are the THREE players who will comprise the core of Bristol City next season...

Aden Flint

aden flint

At the heart of defence lies Aden Flint. The 6'6'' man mountain embodies passion and leadership at the back for Bristol City.

Lee Johnson will look to build a back four around Flint, provided that he resists offers from the likes of Newcastle United and stays with the West Country club.

The goalscoring centre half wins virtually every aerial battle at both ends of the pitch and is a handful to deal with. He has 23 goals in 116 games for Bristol City, which is a remarkable record for a centre back.

City fans will be hoping that the 26-year-old will continue to be a rock at the back during next season.

 

Joe Bryan

Joe Bryan9000

The midfield core was a tough choice between Gary O'Neil and Joe Bryan but I have opted for the latter as he is a settled member of the first team at Ashton Gate.

After starting his career as a left back or winger, Joe Bryan made the transition to the centre of midfield last season and has adapted well to his new position. He now has over 100 appearances for the Robins and will continue to be a central figure in midfield under Lee Johnson next term.

The 22-year-old is very technically gifted with a good range of passing and is still learning and developing.

 

Jonathan Kodjia

Jonathan Kodjia

Jonathan Kodjia signed for Bristol City last season after being top scorer in Ligue 2 for Angers. They were hoping that he would follow in the footsteps of two former Ligue 2 top scorers who adapted well to English football: Olivier Giroud and Diafra Sakho.

Kodjia proved to be one of Bristol City's star performers last season and his goals ultimately kept Lee Johnson's side afloat. 18 goals in 45 appearances was a good return for his first season and the 26-year-old should have better service next season with some of the names Bristol City have been linked with.

The Ivory Coast international will be the main man up front for the Robins next season and could score vital goals to fire them up the table.