Moore keen to establish ‘where things are’ at City
BRISTOL City defender Taylor Moore will leave Scottish outfit Hearts following his loan spell and return to Ashton Gate with his future still uncertain.
The centre-back has spent the season north of the border – but struggled to cement a regular spot in the starting line-up having made 15 Premiership starts and a further six substitute appearances.
Moore, 24, fell out of favour at City following Nigel Pearson’s appointment in February 2021, dropping out of contention in the squad before his temporary spell away from the club was confirmed last summer.
The player will hope to have one final farewell match as Hearts take on Rangers in the Scottish Cup final this month – while they also have Motherwell and Rangers to play in the Premiership – but Moore has confirmed he will return to City after the favourite spell of his career.
He told reporters in Scotland: “I’ve learned as much on the pitch as off the pitch about football and about myself. Working under Robbie Neilson has been so eye-opening. The way he sees the game tactically has been beneficial.
“We’ve played so many different formations this year. Each and every time we change formation, there is an explanation why, there is a demand of what he wants from players in every single position.
“You see the way the club is run. Joe Savage (sporting director) is doing an incredible job as well. There are some good young players coming through. I’ve absolutely loved every minute of it.
“Going to Ibrox, Celtic Park and Hampden, plus Tynecastle and Easter Road – these are big games. The biggest thing is what it means to people and the passion in Scottish football. It’s been unbelievable.
“I’ve been so proud to be a part of it. I haven’t played as many games as I wanted to, but this has probably been my favourite experience in football so far. Living in Edinburgh taught me a lot about myself and my relationship with my Mrs – the Boss.
“I’ve had family come up and made some amazing memories. It has been a very special place and somewhere I will always hold close.”
Last month, Moore revealed how he would hold “serious” talks with Pearson on where his future lies, admitting a fresh chapter in his career remains a likely option.
He still has one year left on his contract, but it remains unlikely Pearson will perform a U-turn on his decision to integrate Moore as part of his plans going into next season.
Moore said: “Where do I see myself next season? Do Bristol City need me? There are a lot of questions.
“Sometimes it’s quite difficult as a player coming towards the end of a season and you don’t know your next step. I’m 25 in May. I’m old enough and ugly enough to understand that sometimes you need to move on and close a chapter.
“I’m very much open to having a conversation with Bristol City to see where things are.”