GIVE ’EM A GO
The No.1pullout that scores EVERY time Lee’s Scotland plea
BRISTOL CITY heroes Jamie Paterson and Joe Bryan are paying a big price for not playing in the Premier League.
Boss Lee Johnson says the stars of the shock Carabao Cup win over Manchester United would be winning Scotland caps if they were.
Both were born in England but are eligible for Scotland and Johnson, whose side travel to QPR today, said: “I spoke to (then boss) Gordon Strachan about this.
“Joe Bryan can play for Scotland or England, who are looking at him as well on a regular basis.
“I am very surprised he hasn’t got into a squad at least. He can play in a number of positions and is a top, top player – definitely an international player.
“Jamie is another who should at least be given a go in the friendlies.
“Athletically and technically they are right up there with the players Scotland have got.
“All of a sudden ®Êby ALEX CROOK you will see Joe and Jamie go to Premier League clubs and then they will be in the next squad. “That is madness. Get them in and have a look now – it raises the profile of the player and also the countries will see that they are good enough.” Bryan scored a wonder goal as City stunned cup holders United at Ashton Gate and Johnson is expecting a battle to keep hold of the flying full-back when the January transfer window opens. “We will probably have to fend off bids from Premier League clubs for him,” Johnson added. “Joe is a Champions League player, without question. He has got fantastic technique.” Johnson also hailed Josh Brownhill after the midfielder signed a new three-and-ahalf-year deal. He said: “Josh has been fantastic for us and this is the right place for him to continue his development.” OLLIE CLARKE and Chris Lines could feature if Rovers boss Darrell Clarke rotates his squad.
Doncaster midfielder James Coppinger is likely to return from a groin problem, while Matty Blair is rated 50-50 and fellow calf injury victim Craig Alcock is back in contention. CHARLTON will be without Billy Clarke after he suffered a season-ending knee injury against Blackburn, but fellow striker Leon Best could star.
Blackpool are without Kyle Vassell and Mark Cullen because of hamstring injuries, while Ollie Turton (dead leg) could also be absent. NORTHAMPTON will be without Matt Crooks (ban) and keeper Matt Ingram (shoulder) remains doubtful. Forward Sam Hoskins (ankle) could return, however.
Rovers could be boosted by the return of Peter Whittingham (calf), but Elliott Bennett is suspended and Harry Chapman is out with a hamstring injury. OXFORD have no fresh injury worries and have only long-term knee injury victim Ivo Pekalski out, but boss Pep Clotet may rotate his options.
Wigan have striker Ryan Colclough (ill) available again, but Jamie Jones (shoulder), Craig Morgan (hip) and Shaun MacDonald (broken leg) are out.
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