Western Daily Press (Saturday)
Derby goal would mean world to me, insists Bell
BRISTOL City forward Sam Bell says he “would give anything” to score in the Severnside Derby, with the Robins making the trip along the M4 this afternoon.
Nigel Pearson’s side dropped down to 13th place in the Sky Bet Championship following their 1-0 loss to Ipswich in midweek, leaving them two points and six places behind Cardiff ahead of the match in South Wales today.
Bell, however, thinks there is no bigger game to bounce back in than this afternoon’s clash.
He told the Robins’ social media channels: “It’s a fixture we always look forward to.
“I’d give anything to score in a
Severnside Derby. To score in one of those games would mean the world.”
Bell also believes that City’s sizable away following can play their part in the derby cauldron.
“Every week, home or away, they travel in their numbers and they’re always very loud.
“I think given the extra importance of the game it means they’re going to be even louder, wanting to kick us on to get that win.”
The Robins gave a decent account of themselves against Ipswich, but could not make a breakthrough and Bell admits it is obvious where his side must improve.
He added: “We need to be a bit more ruthless in the final third.
“We need a bit more extra quality with that last ball, and we’d score a lot more goals.” ■ Pep Guardiola has distanced Manchester City from the two banned supporters who chanted offensively following the death of Sir Bobby Charlton last week, insisting the pair “don’t represent us”.
Footage emerged on social media of two people, both minors, chanting about Charlton during City’s match against Brighton last weekend, soon after the Manchester United great’s death was announced publicly.
City have acted swiftly, denouncing the chanting as “vile”, ahead of the Manchester derby at Old Trafford tomorrow, where United will hold a minute’s applause before kick-off in memory of Charlton.
Guardiola is hopeful the travelling fans will conduct themselves respectfully, as he condemned the behaviour of the two fans who have been suspended from attending City matches home and away.
“They don’t represent us,” said Guardiola said. “Alcohol makes bad things in people. (City ambassador) Mike Summerbee went to Old Trafford to sign the book (of condolence for Charlton), he represents us.
“We have huge respect for United, especially for the icon of Sir Bobby Charlton. We will be part of the condolences, to Man United and English football.”
While City are six points and as many places ahead of United, Guardiola is on his guard after Erik Ten Hag’s side snatched victory in last season’s corresponding clash.
“United have always had that feeling – it doesn’t matter who the manager is – they are a tough, tough opponent,” Guardiola said.