James Wilson has set his sights on impressing Gary Johnson at Ashton Gate after his loan spell at Brentford came to an end.

The City manager had every game of James' three-month loan spell at Brentford watched and admitted he had seen the 19-year-old "grow up as a player".

Now back at Ashton Gate, James - who played 16 times for the Bees - says he wants to continue impressing his club boss.

"I really enjoyed the loan spell and it has given me lots of experience," the Welsh youth international defender told bcfc.co.uk.

"I feel I've improved in every department, especially defending which is the main part of my game. There's a lot of pressure involved because a mistake could lead to a goal and points are at stake. It's not like reserve games.

"There's an extra buzz playing competitive football and it's something I had never experienced before - I loved it. We played very well at the start of my loan and it tailed off towards the end."

 Latest: Manager plays down Wilson Bees return

There have been suggestions that James could return to Brentford in January when the transfer window re-opens, although Gary Johnson yesterday played down those reports in an interview with bcfc.co.uk.

"I'd like to give it a go here for a couple of months," said James, when asked about his immediate future. "If nothing happens by January then I could be going out on loan again - we'll just have to wait and see what happens.

"Playing in League One may be the next step up but I just have to see what the gaffer says. I know he's watched me during my time at Brentford and has said some positive things - I just want to keep impressing him."

He concluded: "I really enjoyed my time at Brentford and thank everyone there. The manager (Andy Scott), the coaches, the people there - everyone was brilliant to me."