Smith's Delight At Johnson Reunion

The pair spent 15 months together at Oldham Athletic, in which time Johnson made Smith his skipper at the age of 22.

Now vice-captain at Ashton Gate, the midfielder was pleased to see stories linking Johnson with the City post come to fruition.

“It’s been a strange week,” Smith told Bristol City Player HD. “Obviously I saw the rumours and then he was in the changing room at the Charlton game!

“I’m delighted he’s here. We had a really good relationship at Oldham and we’ve kept in touch.

“He’s an excellent young coach and he’s got really good player management skills, so I’m sure he’ll be a very good fit for the club.”

Smith revealed he missed Johnson’s first training session, but should be fit to face Ipswich Town at Ashton Gate on Saturday (3pm).

“We had a meeting and the gaffer went through the way he wants to play and the style of play – attacking and defensively,” he said.

“I was told all about what they did in training and the lads seemed to enjoy it. It’s going to be a different style for us, but as long as everyone buys into it, it should be good.

“The standard of players will be higher here (than Oldham), but he always wants his teams to attack and work hard for each other, and I’m sure he’ll bring that.”

City looked on course for victory at Portman Road earlier in the season, only for Ipswich to draw level with a late goal to snatch a point.

“That was one of the games that I’ve missed this season but we played really well there,” Smith added.

“But that’s what Ipswich do – they can grind out results, they’re a good team and that’s why they’re pushing for promotion.

“It’ll be a great day down the Gate on Saturday with a new gaffer and, after a win last week, we’re in decent form.

“I think the fans are feeling positive and we are as well, so it should be a good day and we’ll go for that win.”

The Ipswich match on Saturday will be Johnson’s first game in charge and is now sold out.