Bristol City are already cashing in on the Steve Coppell factor.

Coppell's appointment as manager has given rise to increased optimism among supporters, who are already looking forward to next season.

More than 15,000 watched Saturday's game against Derby County despite there being nothing at stake for either side. And that upsurge in interest is expected to be mirrored in season ticket sales.

Fans are rushing to snap up their seats for the 2010/11 Championship campaign and the club now expect sales to exceed this season's figure of 11,500.

"There has definitely been a surge in business since Steve Coppell was unveiled," confirmed chief executive Colin Sexstone.

"His appointment has rightly lifted the fans and given the whole club a massive boost. There is a feel-good factor which is sure to be good for business.

"At one stage, we thought we would do well to sell 10,000 season tickets, but we've since revised that assessment.

"The Steve Coppell factor means we are now looking at matching or even outstripping last season's figures.

"There is genuine optimism among the supporters and we have already seen an upturn in interest, with people taking advantage of the early bird prices which are available until the end of May."

Meanwhile, City's clash with Blackpool will be screened live on Sky Sports.

While the BBC will screen Sheffield Wednesday's match with Crystal Palace – the loser will be relegated to League One – the Sky cameras will be at Bloomfield Road.