Western Daily Press (Saturday)
City players care about club, insists striker Wells
NAHKI Wells insists the Bristol City squad are fully committed to end a challenging 2020/21 season on a high, with the Robins marooned in mid-table and winless in four matches amid concerns over the players’ attitude on the field.
The Robins have lost three and drawn one of their last four fixtures against teams positioned 11th or lower in the table, with manager Nigel Pearson questioning levels of commitment and standards in the wake of their 3-1 reverse against Coventry on Easter Monday.
The initial buzz of Pearson’s arrival in February is now barely a hum, with uncertainly surrounding the direction of the club amid a number of key decisions need to be made regarding the manager, playing staff and beyond.
Frustrated supporters have claimed the level of performance displayed over the Easter weekend, against Coventry, and Stoke City three days earlier, is the hallmark of a squad going through the motions ahead of the summer.
Pearson has conceded confidence and form is at a low ebb and several meetings and small team-bonding exercises, such as going for walks, have taken place to try and build collective spirit once again.
“I wouldn’t say there’s a lack of care, because as footballers we all care, 100 percent. But we have to find it in ourselves as individuals, and collectively, and that will be bring out a performance,” Wells said.
“We take it with a pinch of salt (the criticism). I can’t really speak for everyone, I have never been involved in a fixture at any football club where I haven’t always cared.
“Other reasons may result in poor performances, but in terms of caring, I’ve never really come across any players that don’t care.
“We’re all really proud to wear this shirt, in facilities and stadiums like this, but effort can’t be lacked, desire can’t be lacked.”
City host Nottingham Forest this afternoon. The Robins are one point and one place higher in the table.