Cole Skuse says leading Bristol City out for the opening Championship match of the Steve Coppell era will be the proudest moment of his career so far. New boss Coppell takes charge of a competitive game for the first time since succeeding Gary Johnson when the Robins host newly-promoted Millwall at Ashton Gate tomorrow. Academy product Skuse, pictured, is expected to be handed the captain's armband and, with it, responsibility for carrying the manager's instructions on to the pitch. No stranger to the role after deputising for injured skipper Louis Carey throughout pre-season, Skuse admitted: "I'll be honoured if I'm made captain for the first game."
Bristol Evening Post
Sam Vokes insists he is ready, willing and able to help injury-ravaged Bristol City in their hour of need. Vokes has been signed from Premier League Wolves on a five-month loan deal, and the 20-year-old Wales international striker is needed to bolster an attack which has been weakened by the absence of Nicky Maynard and Danny Haynes. But City boss Steve Coppell has poured scorn on a national newspaper report linking City with Manchester United striker Michael Owen, describing the rumours as "fantasy island stuff". With tongue lodged firmly in cheek, he said: "We've tried for Rooney, Ronaldo and Messi, but they haven't returned our calls yet!"
Bristol Evening Post
David James is set to make his debut against Millwall for a Bristol City side heading into the new season depleted by injuries. The England goalkeeper made the surprise move to Ashton Gate last week and will be new manager Steve Coppell`s number one ahead of Stephen Henderson and Dean Gerken. However, fellow new signings Nicky Hunt and Kalifa Cisse head a list of eight absentees.
Yahoo Eurosport
Jimmy Abdou will be missing from the Millwall side for the trip to Bristol City. The midfielder picked up an ankle knock during the recent pre-season friendly against Hearts so Darren Carter, who joined this week on loan from Preston, goes straight into the starting line-up.
Yahoo Eurosport
Cardiff City have missed out in their bid to take young Wales striker Sam Vokes on loan. The 6ft 2ins Southampton-born forward has opted to join Cardiff's Championship rivals Bristol City for the new season. Bluebirds boss Dave Jones had been keen to bring Vokes into his squad as competition for Jay Bothroyd.
Wales Online
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/cardiff-city-fc/2010/08/06/bluebirds-miss-out-on-vokes-loan-bid-91466-27007169/
