Bristol City could make loan signing

BRISTOL City boss Gary Johnson has not ruled out a further foray into the loan market to bolster his defensive resources.

But the Londoner says he will only make a move if "the right player becomes available".

Johnson only recently recruited centre-back Andy Webster on a six-month loan deal from Glasgow Rangers to provide cover for the injured Jamie McCombe.

Yet the newcomer has himself been troubled by injury and lack of match practice, while left-back Jamie McAllister has only just returned to training after suffering a recurrence of an ankle injury playing against Queens Park Rangers at Ashton Gate 11 days ago.

Johnson remains confident McAllister and Webster will both be available for Saturday's Championship showdown with Cardiff City at Ninian Park, but the long-term absence of Welsh Under-21 international Christian Ribeiro (ruptured cruciate ligament) and McCombe (fractured cheekbone) have left the manager short of defensive strength in depth.

"Another loan signing is a possibility," confirmed Johnson. "But I'm not going to go and get someone in just for the sake of it. If the right player becomes available, then I'll think about it."

A key member of City's back four last season, McCombe was expected to be sidelined for up to six weeks after fracturing his cheekbone in an aerial challenge in a game against Derby County on August 16.

But he now faces an even longer lay-off and Johnson revealed: "We can forget about Jamie for the time being."

Meanwhile, McAllister and Webster are battling to be fit for Saturday's Severnside derby. Webster successfully tested his injured calf in last night's reserve team victory over Bournemouth, while McAllister is back in training.

Johnson is hopeful both will be available for the trip to Ninian Park.

He said: "Andy and Jamie are on the mend and we still have a few days to get them right."

Tickets are now on general sale for Saturday's game in the Welsh capital. But only a few hundred remained at close of business last night. All City fans must travel by official coach to this game and tickets will only be sold to City fans currently on the club's database. These can be purchased in person at Ashton Gate or by calling 0871 2226666.