ONE of Keith Millen's first actions upon succeeding Steve Coppell as Bristol City manager was to offer reassurance to the club's new signings, writes Andy Stockhausen.

Although his reign proved surprisngly shortlived, Coppell still managed to recruit half a dozen players, including Kalifa Cisse pictured below, and Albert Adomah, pictured right, during his three-month sojourn, including England goalkeeper David James.

While the loyalty of those players of long-standing is not in question, the Coppell factor undoubtedly played a part in persuading the new additions to commit to City and they are sure to feel the loss of the man who brought them to Ashton Gate more keenly.

If Millen is to forge a successful team and improve upon what has been a lamentable start to the season, he will need to take those players with him.

"The first thing I did was call a team meeting to tell the players what had happened," revealed Millen.

"They were shocked and surprised by the news and I knew that the new lads would be feeling especially disappointed. That is understandable, given that they came to the club to work with Steve.

"I spoke to them all and they understand that these things happen in football. They all said they are quite happy to work with me to try and pick up some results.

"David James came up to me aterwards and told me he remained totally committed to the club and that he wants to do well for Bristol City. Having seen their reaction, I believe that goes for the rest of them, too."

Millen is guaranteed the support and commitment of those players who performed so admirably for him during the final third of last season following his instalment as caretaker manager in the wake of previous boss Gary Johnson's departure.

Led by the senior professionals, the squad responded to Millen's enthusiasm and freshness of approach, losing only once in 12 outings to rise from 18th to 10th in the Championship.

Millen recalled: "We had a similar situation after Gary went and the players responded magnificently in my first game in charge at home to Newcastle.

"Things are a little different now, but my job is still to try and create an environment in which they can feel happy with their work.

"I want them to feel as though they can go and play football and express themselves."

Club captain Louis Carey will be a key figure in the days and weeks to come and Millen asked the Bristolian to travel to Doncaster with the first team squad on Saturday, even though he was not fit enough to play.

Millen explained: "As club captain, Louis is a key person. He is a good leader, an experienced professional and the kind of person I am going to need in the changing room.

"That is why he travelled to Doncaster with us. The more experienced lads are very important to us right now."

A heel injury prevented Carey from playing any part in City's pre-season friendly programme, but the centre-back has been back in training for a few eeks now and is close to making a comeback.

Millen said: "Louis is fit now, but hasn't had any match practice. We've arranged a friendly at the training ground for Tuesday and he will have a run out in that.

"Hopefully, two or three of those who need a game will be involved as well. "