Geraint Williams is taking City's challenge for promotion to the Premier League seriously.

Critics and pundits have been writing off the chances of Gary Johnson's side for much of the 2007/08 season.

And even with City one point off top spot with 13 games to go, still some people are waiting for the "bubble to burst".

But that's not the case for Colchester United boss Williams, whose side host City at Layer Road tomorrow.

He said: "I'm sure it is a massive game for Bristol (City) when you look at the prize on offer for them - the Premier League

"So it's a big game for them, but it's just as big for us!

"I think everybody takes them seriously in this league. Once you get past Christmas and they stay where they are, you have to.

"Gary Johnson is an excellent manager, he's done a great job at both Yeovil and Bristol City and he likes to ball down and pass it which is all good.

"Sometimes you need the opportunity (to challenge higher up the Football League) and obviously he's had it playing in the Championship this year and he's taken it.

"They're a very good footballing side, as I've said they've brought in a couple of players as well.

"They've had the funds available at the right times and have got a million pound striker on the bench, so it shows the strides they've made down at Bristol (City).

"They've come in and they've had a go this year, and they're rightfully where they deserve to be with the football they play up there."

The U's will be without winger Mark Yeates, whose season is now over after a shoulder operation.