Experienced defender extends his Robins deal
TIMM Klose has ended speculation about his Bristol City future by signing a one-year contract extension with the option of an extra year.
The veteran defender has had an offer on the table since before the end of the season but initially delayed putting pen to paper on his contract. That generated uncertainty as to whether he would remain a Robin heading into the upcoming campaign.
Klose, 34, joined City as a free agent in January on a six-month deal and started every match from his arrival up until the end of the season, reaping the plaudits from both supporters and the manager.
Nigel Pearson was eager to keep him on the books following a string of assured performances.
His experience also proved vitally important in aiding City’s younger stars coming through the ranks.
The likes of centre-back partners Robbie Cundy and Rob Atkinson have also benefited from his presence, having embarked on their debut Championship campaigns.
Speaking about his new contract, Klose told the club: “I’ve really enjoyed my time at the club since arriving in January and I felt an instant connection with the players, staff and fanbase.
“I’m glad that I’ve come into the squad and managed to contribute at both ends of the pitch as we finished the season with a bit of momentum, which hopefully we can bring into the season ahead.
“I’d also like to thank Nigel and the club for giving me the opportunity to continue my journey with Bristol City.”
Last week’s arrival of Luton Town’s
Kal Naismith means Pearson now has an abundance of central defenders at his disposal, including Tomas Kalas, Nathan Baker, Ryley Towler, Cam Pring, Duncan Idehen, Klose, Atkinson and Cundy.
City are still waiting on Cundy’s decision, with a contract still on the table for the 25-year-old.
The former Oxford man was told he was free to leave in January but turned around his City career after finally making his full debut in the 1-0 victory over Blackburn in March.
Baker’s future still remains unclear, with the club being understandably cautious following his serious concussion picked up in the game against Sheffield United last November.
City could also consider allowing youngsters Idehen and Towler to go out on loan to gain first-team experience, with the former making his first-team debut as a substitute in the 3-1 victory over Derby near the season’s end.
Meanwhile, Andy King’s future is also yet to be decided. The midfielder’s deal expires this month but he has been offered an extension as a player/coach.