Bristol City manager Steve Coppell is fast gaining the reputation as a strong, silent type, according to the players. As the first full-week of training begins at City, Coppell is cutting a rather different figure from his predecessor. Whereas former manager Gary Johnson was always quick to make his thoughts known, Coppell's manner couldn't be more removed. Bristolian Cole Skuse and his team-mates are eager to make a good first impression on the new manager. Coppell has said very little to the players so far, preferring to watch from the touchlines while his coaching staff put his charges through their paces. But midfielder Skuse knows he and his team-mates are constantly being assessed by the former Reading boss, who will make his first team selection when the Robins take on Gothenberg in their opening pre-season friendly in Sweden next Tuesday. "We all know how important it is to make the right impression," he said.
Bristol Evening Post

Bristol City star Paul Hartley could be set for a shock return to the SPL with Jim Jefferies Hearts. Hartley joined City in July last year on a free transfer from Celtic and played an important part in their Championship campaign, making 36 appearances, including four as a substitute and has one year of his contract left at Ashton Gate. But the appointment of new boss Steve Coppell has left the 33 year-old unsure of his future. Hartley to Celtic in 2007 for £1.1m after being unsettled at Hearts under owner Vladimir Romanov.
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