Striker David Clarkson further pressed his claims for a first-team recall when weighing in with a hat-trick as Bristol City Reserves hammered Bournemouth 7-0 at Dean Court yesterday.

Intent upon proving his fitness after recovering from a viral infection which laid him low for a month, the Scottish international certainly gave watching manager Gary Johnson something to think about.

Having previously netted in Totesport.com Wales & West Combination games against Swindon and Salisbury, the summer signing from Motherwell issued a timely reminder of his predatory instincts as a Bristol City line-up, comprising a mixture of senior professionals and Academy products, ran riot.

Fellow forwards Marlon Jackson (2) and John Akinde also contributed goals, while midfielder Gavin Williams netted with a spectacular long-range strike. But it was Clarkson's performance which caught the eye.

Given that Costa Rica striker Alvaro Saborio is not due to return from international duty in the United States until Friday, City boss Johnson may be persuaded to make a change in attack for Saturday's Coca-Cola Championship clash against Peterborough United at Ashton Gate.

Although Danny Haynes, who did not travel to Bournemouth, is considered favourite to partner top scorer Nicky Maynard, Clarkson's hat-trick will have given his manager food for thought.

Unfortunately, Brian Wilson lasted only two minutes of the game before limping off following a kick to the shins.

City have now won three of their four Combination fixtures this season and currently top the table.

Bristol City Reserves: Bradley, B Wilson (Ball 2), Z Andrews, Holloway, Edwards, Williams (Rubbins 75), Kington, Plummer, Akinde, Clarkson (Livings 75), Jackson.