We will learn from playing the best - Johnson

ATTACK, ATTACK, ATTACK

Johnson opted to make a brace of half-time changes, with Famara Diédhiou and Nathan Baker introduced for Liam Walsh and Hordur Magnusson.

"I think we had to (make the changes)," added Johnson. " The real killer was the first goal, which was a poor goal to concede; we had numerous chances to clear the ball and they are too sharp to not do that.

"It was always the plan for an attacking substitution at half-time because that's what we needed, given the fact that we were a goal down.

"I thought we had better territory in the second half just by putting another player up front. We threw caution to the wind a bit with our high pressing but when they wriggle out of it as they do, with their touch so secure and perfect, it was difficult to get the ball back."

CAN PLAYING AGAINST THE BEST HELP YOUR PLAYERS?

Man City scored in stoppage time in both legs to edge out their Championship opponents, but Johnson is hoping his players will benefit from the experience they've had.

"We're a young group and most of them are on the way up," he added. "They have either been recruited from lower leagues or foreign lands or have come up through the Academy so you can only truly learn.

"I can coach them until I'm blue in the face, but when they come up against quality it's purposeful practice. It's like going from your normal Fiat Punto straight into a Formula One car and having to deal with the change of dynamics, the speed and it was a great night.

"I can't help but be tinged with sadness because we wall wanted to win but it gives a focus now. The energy tank becomes even after the QPR game on Saturday and then with the run-in we'll have full energy going into everyone."

A COLOURFUL ATMOSPHERE AT BS3

Another Ashton Gate sell-out was a sight to behold as 22,000 flags sailed high to welcome the teams on to the pitch.

Johnson said: "I thought [the flags were] great, a really good idea and thank you to the volunteers who have worked hard putting them out and who are cleaning them up. It's much appreciated.

"It added to a great occasion here. People have seen five goals, top players for both teams and they have seen how we have continued to play and do our very best in our particular style."

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