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Dean Smith’s pre-Bristol City press conference begins at 9am.
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DS: "We flew up to Burnley on the Thursday afternoon and when we got to the hotel we found out her Majesty had passed. Within the hour we knew the game was going to be postponed."

DS: “I didn’t meet her, unfortunately. I’ve met the new Prince of Wales plenty of times with his #AVFC connection.”

DS:”It’s really important. All supporters, players and staff will want to pay their respects to her Majesty. We are in good hands with the new King.”

DS: "Accrington Stanley thankfully allowed us to use their training ground whilst we were up there. We did some set pieces, a full training session and then came home."

DS: “No more new injuries from the last game.”

DS: “It’s given a few players a rest. We are unbeaten at home and we want that to continue. I’m looking forward to both games.”

DS: “Liam Gibbs is back walking and out of the boot. Dimi is the closest to a return. I saw Isaac (Hayden) running with a ball yesterday.”

DS: (Pearson) “His longevity is there for all to see. He is very well respected and very well liked.”

DS: “Good teams are built on strong defences. I believe we’ve got the players in this squad to score goals. We won’t be resting on our laurels.”

DS: (Sara) “I can see from his face in training when I name the team that he wants to get in. I was really pleased when he came on against Coventry. I have to pick the team to go win the game.”

DS: “I usually like having a balanced defence. Although, we currently have four right-footed defenders. Ben Gibson is pushing them.”

DS: “The lads will have the first week off (WC break). Then we will go for some warm weather training.”

Smith believes the EFL are trying to reschedule the Burnley for a midweek in October.

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That concludes today’s press conference.

Posted By: DrDublin, Sep 13, 09:25:50