Bristol Live spoke to eight Bristol City supporters to get their thoughts on the Robins’ play-off finish and the current position of the football clubBristol City fans at the Robins’ final-day draw with Preston North End(Image: EFL)

Just like that, another season has been and gone, and for Bristol City, while it ended on a disappointing note, it has certainly been one to remember for the right reasons.

The Robins ended a 17-year wait for a top six finish in dramatic fashion. Having come from behind to draw against Preston North End on the final day, players, staff and fans alike waited inside Ashton Gate for news from Blackburn Rovers’ meeting with Sheffield United. As the full-time whistle went at Bramall Lane, a celebration that will live long in the memory of all involved errupted into life in BS3.

Of course, what followed in the play-offs was less positive. Liam Manning’s side were comprehensivly beaten by the Blades across the two legs to ensure that second tier football again beckons next term. However, the mood around South Bristol has changed over the last 10 months or so, with most associated with the Reds relishing the prospect of next season.

Now, Manning, Brian Tinnion and the Lansdown family face an important summer. Nobody wants to see the Robins take a step backwards next term and the coming months will likely dictate just what this squad are capable of next season.

Before we get too far ahead of ourselves, however, Bristol Live asked eight City fans to review the campaign and offer their thoughts on what needs to happen this summer to ensure the Robins have a chance of going one step further this time next year…

READ MORE: Liam Manning planning Neil Harris conversation after Josh Stokes’ loan away from Bristol CityREAD MORE: Liam Manning lifts lid on off-the-pitch Yu Hirakawa progress after ‘huge’ Bristol City moveWith the play-off defeat now in the rearview mirror, how would you sum up Bristol City’s season?

Jack Buchanan, 20, Uplands: “I think overall it was a pretty successful season. There was some strong business in the summer window, with a clear plan for the campaign. Ultimately of course, we didn’t achieve promotion but any City fan would have snapped your hand off for a top six finish if offered at the MKM Stadium back in August.”

Oli Giles, 23, Frenchay: “Obviously, this season was somewhat successful, being our highest finish for 17 years and a great achievement to make it into the play offs. It was also totally unexpected, I think. If you had told me at the start of the season we would have been in the play offs I would’ve bitten your hand off. I don’t think many of us were expecting to still be in with a shout come the final day of the season, let alone finish in the top six.

“However, overall, I do think the season was a bit of a mixed bag. Our home form definitely dragged us into the play-offs, but our away form was shocking, only picking up four wins from 23. Games like Derby, Pompey and Luton away were matches against teams that we should have been picking up vital points against.”

Robert Collins, 22, Bedfordshire: “An overachievement. When you look at the budget and the squad it’s not a top six side. Add in the January window and injuries and the job Liam and his staff have done is nothing short of incredible.”

Liam Manning guided Bristol City to the play-offs for the first time in 17 years(Image: Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

Ashton Adams, 29, Chepstow: “This season, for me personally, has been about pushing on and cementing our statements that we’ve made as a club. We said we had a top six squad, and most people laughed, including me at times. However, I felt after the 2-2 draw at Stoke and the Middlesbrough win, that we really had the makings of a team who were in the better realms of the division. A year where we upheld our own expectations as a club and smashed the expectations of a fanbase is never something to be scoffed at!”

Rich Carter, 53, Knowle West: “It’s been a really positive season, with levels of performance improving over the year. In the last few weeks, the depth of the squad, injuries and fatigue did come back to bite us, but overall, the football being played was more exciting and successful.”

Jordan Tansley, 34, Weston-super-Mare: “One of growth. It took some time and a couple of early mistakes from Liam in terms of tactical plans and, in hindsight, recruitment, but once we moved to a 3-4-2-1 formation, we looked significantly better and played a more pragmatic and aggressive style of football that is suited to this division. Play-offs were the stretch target, and we achieved it. We’ve got to be happy with that.”

Russell Woodford, 35, Coalpit Heath: “A much improved effort where we have, without question, ‘punched above our weight’. A limited squad depth, where Liam Manning has squeezed out every ounce of effort and belief out of a galvanised set of great players. Unfortunately, the two Sheffield United fixtures came too late, and with key players missing, they were ultimately a step too far. For a club with the 14th highest wage bill in the division, I think the manager deserves a huge amount of credit.”

Luke Rodford, 22, Yeovil: “Although it ended the way it did, this season has certainly been one to remember for Bristol City fans. Especially with everything Manning has been through, and the injuries throughout the team, bringing the playoff dream to the final day certainly meant a lot to everyone associated with the football club.

“It is a special achievement, considering this team really shouldn’t be anywhere near the playoffs on paper. Hard work paid off, and the team should be proud of how far they have come during the 2024/25 season.”

If you could pick out a standout moment of the campaign, what would it be?

Jack Buchanan: “The standout moment for me was Sunderland at home on Good Friday. I think that was the moment I truly believed we’d make the play-offs, showing such character to come back from a goal down, even with the extra man advantage. “

Oli Giles: “For me personally, it has to be West Brom at home. I’m sure a lot of City fans will probably agree. The last-gasp winner was definitely a poignant moment for me this season. I think that was the turning point in the season where we all started to believe we had what it takes as a team to finally make that final push for the play-offs. The celebrations after the game from the players, staff and fans showed how much it really meant.”

Robert Collins: “I’d say Leeds at home. The togetherness and unity of the club after the tragic passing of Theo was very emotive and hopefully went a way to supporting Liam, his partner and his family. On the pitch, the last minute winner against West Brom cannot be beaten!”

Content cannot be displayed without consent

Ashton Adams: “The standout moment for myself has to be the win at the Riverside once again. To see the togetherness, the camaraderie and resilience of a side who were fighting for more than just themselves on one of the furthest reaches from home possible, will stay with me for a long time.”

Rich Carter: “There were lots of memorable moments. The win at Boro with the support for the Manning family at the end, where huge credit goes to the Boro fans that day as well. The better than Brazil third goal at Preston by Max Bird. Cornick’s goal at the Den. I should say that it was the Roberts’ West Brom winner, but I can’t as I was stuck working away and watching on my phone. My actual highlight ended up being the away end at Bramall Lane for the second leg, where the support was so positive and so loud despite the scoreline.”

Jordan Tansley: “The Preston game had a number of really, really amazing moments. The joy of sharing a moment with the team on the pitch, seeing Ross McCrorie and the rest run towards our fans rather than back to the “safety” of the changing rooms, was incredible. But the moment that meant the most was watching Liam and his eldest son pumping their fists at us in S82. Every emotion was felt in that moment.”

Russell Woodford: “The run-in was absolutely superb. The Middlesbrough win after our old friend Tommy Conway gave it the big one in front of Section 82, only for George Earthy to become another loanee cult hero after his brace. Who could forget the 96th minute winner against West Brom where the roof nearly came off Ashton Gate and Rob Dickie’s thunderbolt in the 2-1 win against Sunderland! Amazing days and nights at the Gate.”

Luke Rodford: “Overall, the 2-1 win vs West Brom, when Roberts scored in the last minute; that was something special. Those home wins against the teams around the play-offs showed we weren’t just there to take part.”

Who is your player of the season and why?

Jack Buchanan: “Jason Knight, and it’s not even close for me. As has been spoken about to death lately, he played every minute of the league season, and I can only think of one “poor” performance during that time. Every single week he has given 100% for the club, and that is all we want as fans. He is the epitome of that.”

Oli Giles: “Obviously has to be Jason Knight. He was a hugely influential player for us. Since losing Brownhill to Burnley in 2020, we’ve not really been able to replace him, but it feels like with Knight, we’ve got the player we needed. His work rate, the way he can win the ball back and also being key in getting us forward, he’s certainly one of the best I’ve seen down the Gate for some years. Also, not to forget, he’s played every minute this season, a true leader and still only 24 years old. We will do well to keep hold of him this summer!”

Robert Collins: “Obvious one, but Jason Knight. He doesn’t get the recognition outside of the club he deserves, but without him in midfield, we wouldn’t have been in half the games we were.”

Jason Knight scored as Bristol City drew with Plymouth Argyle at Home Park(Image: Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

Ashton Adams: “Player of the Season is a no-brainer for me this year: Jason Knight. The days when he was tired, we failed to turn up, but the days when he was at the races, we consistently battled, won games and consistently stood up and chipped in for the big moments. Scoring headed goals at both Cardiff and Swansea are no mean feat.”

Rich Carter: “Jason Knight has been the heartbeat of the team all year. When we’ve been flat in games, he’s got us going, and on the very few occasions where he’s struggled, away at Derby and Portsmouth, for example, then we’ve been very poor. In the honourable mention columns, Max Bird has displayed a range of passing not seen often in recent years, and whenever Cam Pring is not available, or having to play out of position, we lose so much balance.”

Jordan Tansley: “It can really only be Jason Knight, can’t it? I think it sums up how important he is to us that the only really bad games I can remember him having all season resulted in the team capitulating against Blackburn and Portsmouth. He’s just a phenomenal player who is destined to play at the top. I can’t see him being here much longer, to be honest.”

Russell Woodford: “Jason Knight, for me. The skipper has played every minute and has led by example from the first minute until the last. Let’s hope we keep him, as no doubt he’ll be attracting Premier League clubs after his consistent performances across the long season.”

Luke Rodford: “Jason Knight – the engine in midfield. He has been a joy to watch this season. City need to make sure he stays put in BS3. A fantastic captain and player. Always gonna have a soft spot for Earthy as well, considering he wasn’t really meant to come into the fold like he did.”

How have your thoughts on Liam Manning changed over the course of the season?

Jack Buchanan: “My thoughts on Manning have definitely changed throughout this season. I think any human being who can overcome what he went through back in October is simply remarkable, let alone doing that and following it with one of the greatest periods of his career as well. I just hope he sticks around to continue building towards the top flight.”

Oli Giles: “I wouldn’t say they’ve changed too much if I’m honest. I always thought Manning had what it takes to take us to the next step, but he’s finally shown what he can do. To do what he’s done with the tools he’s been given shows he’s a great manager. Especially with losing his young son midway through the season, I can’t imagine how hard that was for him. To come back and lead us to the play-offs really shows his resilience and character. No one deserves a rest this summer more than him.”

Robert Collins: “My thoughts haven’t really changed. I think we’re still in need of a Plan B, as once we’re figured out and teams re-adjust, we’re too one-dimensional and blunt in attack.”

Sign up for our City newsletter

Bristol City are fighting to secure their place in the play-off places and you won’t miss a beat with our free newsletter.

All the latest news, views, interviews, gossip and analysis concerning the Robins, delivered straight to your inbox.

It’s completely free and you can sign up HERE

Ashton Adams: “Liam personally, I felt was always going to be a success. I was very happy when he came in, in October 2023. However, I felt at the time he was a very data-driven coach. His personal growth has been inspiring, and the measure of any man can be taken from his trials and tribulations. He changed his message, his tone and his own personal essence at times and lifted a squad into believing in themselves and believing in something more. He will always be loved and welcomed at our club when the day comes he chooses to call it a day! Which I hope isn’t for a long time yet!”

Rich Carter: “The view of Liam reflects the change in performances over the year. Often, before Christmas, we could become passive, keeping the ball but playing in front of teams while not hurting them. In the second half of the season, we’ve seemed to move the ball more quickly, be willing to take a bit more risk, and it has improved our ability to hurt the opposition. The coaching team has to take credit for that. It’s key that we start next season with this positive mindset.”

Jordan Tansley: “Hugely. I was frustrated at the way we started the season; the decision to persist with a poorly thought-out plan with Twine inverting and Pring left to marshal the left-hand side on his own was never likely to work. However, when the team started to play a bit more aggressively and then the change in shape to a 3-4-2-1, I have to say I’ve been gradually more impressed. That doesn’t even factor in the respect and love I think most of us feel for Liam as a man after everything that he and his family have been through.”

Russell Woodford: “I have to be honest, at the start of the season, after a series of mixed performances, I was starting to doubt him, but after the Christmas break, he really galvanised the group and also the club as a whole. He deserves huge credit for creating a feel-good factor at Bristol City, and I pray we keep hold of him. More importantly, it’s crucial that Steve Lansdown backs him financially to take us forward and make the next step into the Premier League.”

Luke Rodford: “I’ve always been a Manning fan, even when we had a tricky spell around the autumn time. The football we played has been some of the best I’ve seen at the club for ages, long may it continue.”

If you could strengthen one position this summer, what would be your priority and why?

Jack Buchanan: “Personally, it has to be a centre-forward. We’ve really lacked that cutting edge this season and it’s cost us points along the way. I think there are multiple good options available. It’s hopefully just a case of finding the one that works best for Liam and his team.”

Oli Giles: “For me, we need a proven goalscorer up front. I personally don’t think Armstrong or Mayulu have what it takes, unfortunately. They looked very promising at the start of the season, but never really kicked on. It seems Fally hasn’t really settled, and the loan move in January didn’t go too well. It is worth remembering they’re both young, and maybe they still need time to adapt. But how long do we give them? I think that it’s evident Manning feels the same way, in the fact that Nahki Wells had to play such a vital role for us up top this season. I don’t think anyone was expecting him to start at the start of the campaign.

Nahki Wells’ Bristol City contract is set to expire this summer(Image: Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images)

“If what Tinnion said in January is true, I think now could be the time to potentially cash in and look at getting someone in who knows where the back of the net is.”

Robert Collins: “Centre forward. Speaks for itself really!”

Ashton Adams: “For me, I believe that we need new full-backs. All season, we have adopted a system where we have decent full-backs, but not wing-backs and a lot of our play has broken down because of a lack of real quality and natural ability in the wide roles. To get up and back is one thing that Sykes, Rossco and Pringy have done well, but to do it naturally is something that is that little bit harder, and by the end, it was the difference for me in the run in at the end. We looked tired and a bit found out.”

Rich Carter: “The area to improve has to be striker. Nahki has done really well, but we cannot expect him to continue forever. Sincs has the physical attributes but is not suited to how we’re trying to play, and his confidence has seemed to fade as the season has gone on.”

Jordan Tansley: “If Elijah Morrison isn’t going to get meaningful minutes, then clearly we have a weakness at left wing back, especially as Cam Pring seems to be moving towards becoming a left centre-back as he gets older. Roberts offers so little as an attacking outlet that he cannot be our “back-up” in that position. A genuinely pacey threat who can cross on that side would be hugely beneficial.”

Russell Woodford: “Has to be a striker. Nahki Wells has had his best season in a City shirt and deserves a massive amount of praise, but we need a 20+ goals a season striker to take the pressure off the 34-year-old. Time will tell if we can make that happen after this season’s unfortunate business of Fally Mayulu and Sinclair Armstrong, who haven’t worked out.”

Luke Rodford: “A number nine who is going to score goals is crucial, I believe, to take this club to the next step. We missed too many chances this season.”

What would your ideal summer transfer window look like in BS3?

Jack Buchanan: “For me, we need a fair few signings. As previously mentioned, attack needs to be the main point of focus, but depth in defence is also a necessity, as we’ve really seen just how lacking we are in that department since the January window. I also think it’s time certain players are moved on who don’t get as many minutes, such as Harry Cornick…as much as it pains me to say it!”

Oli Giles: “I think first off, we have to do whatever is possible to keep Jason Knight. We’ve all seen rumours that he will be off this summer. But if we really want to kick on and be serious about pushing for the play-offs again, he’s such a key player for us, we can’t let him go. It would be such a huge loss and difficult to replace him.

“As previously mentioned a striker is key. I’ve been saying for a while we need some proper competition in goal for O’Leary, with Bajic being moved on now’s the perfect opportunity.”

Max O’Leary started every Championship game for Bristol City this season(Image: Photo by MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Robert Collins: “Keep Manning first of all. Money-wise, hope for a windfall from Semenyo. I can see Knight going too, unfortunately, but we would have money to invest. Incomings-wise, find a number nine, two if one of Mayulu or Wells goes, a replacement central midfielder and a goalkeeper. I’d probably sign a centre-back too. I think outgoings will dictate how many come in.”

Ashton Adams: “My ideal transfer window would be to get Nahki tied down to a new contract and sign a new forward of real quality. Without naming names, I feel that a free agent up top who knows the level would be good. As would two new full-backs and one central midfielder. Keeping hold of Knighty is key, and lastly, I’d have a steady and able competition in net for Max. No disrespect to Stefan, who was a gentleman, but someone like Karl Darlow, who is an experienced goalkeeper who knows the level and may be available on a free. Not necessarily him, but someone of that mould.”

Rich Carter: “I suspect that I’ll reflect everyone’s answer. We need a ‘keeper and a striker. Max has had a good season and has clearly saved us more points than he’s cost us, but he is not challenged at present, so, at minimum, a keeper that Liam is willing to play is needed. On the striker, we need one that suits the style of play. I cannot see Liam ever reverting to long balls into the channel, or 4-4-2 with two wingers bombarding the box with crosses, so let’s make sure it’s someone who can act as the link and off the last shoulder.

“The other key element is keeping what we have, especially in the middle of the park, for at least another year, so we have the numbers to rotate and keep the energy high.”

Jordan Tansley: “A restructuring of the club leadership and a new HoR. New contracts for Liam, Knight as a minimum, and Uncle Steve investing heavily in improving the team and taking advantage of this period of good feeling, momentum, and record season ticket sales. Sadly, based on everything that’s come out of the club recently, I can see this being quite a frustrating summer for fans.”

Russell Woodford: “A marquee signing for a number nine, an experienced goalkeeper to back up Max O’Leary and another centre half to provide strong cover.”

Luke Rodford: “First and foremost, keeping the key players and manager will mean more than any signing. Manning, Knight and even the likes of Bird and Dickie as examples. However, a new goalkeeper, centre-back, right wing-back and striker wouldn’t go amiss.”

How confident are you at this moment in time that Bristol City will be able to challenge for another top six finish next season?

Jack Buchanan: “It will certainly be a harder division next time around, as this was arguably the weakest Championship we’ve seen for a long time. City’s 68-point tally wouldn’t have seen us finish inside the top six in any of the past 12 Championship seasons. We’ll absolutely need to be a stronger outfit if we want to make progress again next year.”

Oli Giles: “At this moment in time, I’m fairly confident. I think if we can have a good summer and get the recruitment right this time round, we’ll certainly be up there. But recruitment and holding onto key players is massively important this summer. If the board want us to be serious challengers for the play-offs, this has to happen and they have to back Manning. Give him the right tools to push on next season and hopefully take us that one step further.”

Robert Collins: “The recruitment is key this summer. We will be mid-table if we can’t find a more reliable source of goals. Definitely pushing top 10, but we need a little more quality everywhere to really force us up there again.”

Ashton Adams: “I believe that next year, the league will be as difficult as it has been this year. The teams coming up in Birmingham and Wrexham have investment ready-made for this level and are riding the wave of last season. The three coming down, we know about extremely well already and they will not be walkovers. It is up to us to recruit well; invest in our principles and philosophies, keep everything fresh and who knows, maybe we could go one further.”

Rich Carter: “The Championship next year will be more of the same. I suspect that the three relegated teams will not be as strong as this year’s top three, but equally, those that have been promoted up may be stronger. I suspect City will once again be in that middle block of teams competing between fifth and 12th.

Nahki Wells and Liam Manning celebrate Bristol City’s win over Sunderland(Image: Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

“If you look at this season, there were a few occasions we were outplayed, but also a few occasions where we were bullied and avoiding those kinds of results will be key in deciding where we end up in that set. I’d be happy again if we’re in the mix again in April next season, and I think we should be there or thereabouts.”

Jordan Tansley: “I’ve been cursed by this club for 27 years or so. I know to never have confidence… It all depends on Lansdown, to be honest. We have to improve in order to stand still, in my opinion. Next season, the points required to achieve sixth will likely be three or five higher.”

Russell Woodford: “For me, it’s going to come down purely to the strengthening of the squad and whether the Lansdowns are happy being in and around the top 10 or whether we want to truly build on what has been a brilliant season.”

Luke Rodford: “If the club invests wisely, then we will challenge again, I have no doubt. We just need those finishing touches.”

What are your general thoughts about the club at the moment?

Jack Buchanan: “I’ve never felt more connected to the club than I have in recent months. There seems to be a huge sense of belief around Ashton Gate, and ultimately that comes down to Liam Manning and the squad he’s built/developed over the past 18 months. Barring any sort of catastrophic summer window or start to next season, I can only see that feeling continuing to grow amongst supporters too.”

Oli Giles: “I think the mood around the club at the moment has certainly improved. Results at home this season have really lifted spirits. Being a season ticket holder for nearly 20 years, it was certainly one of the more enjoyable seasons I can remember following City. I think the fans have started to believe again after years of mid-table mediocrity. It is certainly an exciting time to support ‘England’s Most Boring Club.'”

Robert Collins: “Overall I’m very positive. I’m interested to see if the sporting quarter develops, as I think that will add another string to the bow. I just hope everyone remains realistic and the positivity stays, because what has been achieved has been far beyond where we should be. Manning shouldn’t be a victim of his own success. I’m looking forward to next season!”

Ashton Adams: “There is a general buzz of contentment around the club. It is a happy environment to be around and off the pitch, the work that is going on is greater than ever. We’re bringing all networks closer to bring unity and tight knit work. The foundation are doing fantastic work in the community and the academy are producing better footballers by the day, all you have to do is look at the U18’s success.

Bristol City Live on Whatsapp

Join Bristol City Live’s Whatsapp community for all the biggest Bristol City stories sent straight to your phone

Bristol City Live is now on WhatsApp and we want you to join our community.

Through the app, we’ll send the Bristol City news, live match coverage, team news, transfers, fixtures, analysis and more straight to your phone.

To join our community you need to already have WhatsApp. All you need to do is click this link and select ‘Join Community’.

No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Bristol Live team.

We also treat community members to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out at any time you like.

To leave our community, click on the name at the top of your screen and choose ‘Exit group’.

If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.

Click here to join our WhatsApp community.

“If we can match the models of other elements, around the first team of both the men and women’s side of the club on a first team matchday; then we’ll look to go one step further. Either way, a hard slog has just been had and I hope everybody enjoys the break!”

Rich Carter: “Having gotten close, there is undoubtedly some feelings of ‘what if’ about January decisions. The logical part of my brain looks at Boro spending heavily in January and having their form fall apart as they tried to shoehorn in their changes. The emotional part of my brain says how much budget did we really save by putting Naismith out on loan, leaving us exposed at left centre half for half a season?

“The reality is the current ownership are not going to ‘bet the farm’, especially after having spent a couple of seasons under Nigel Pearson undoing the previous damage. I think there does seem to be a lack of clarity and accountability on senior decision making, and I think that needs to be resolved to give Liam, the backroom staff and players the best chance to succeed.”

Jordan Tansley: “Mixed. I look at some of the people in positions of power and wonder how on earth we just managed to get sixth place. I think this club has such incredible potential, and it’s being hamstrung by poor decisions. It feels like once again, the head coach is performing so well that some of the cracks are papered over. But on the plus side, the ground feels as fun and as vibrant as it ever has, the playing squad is a perfect blend of flair and determination, and we had fans in the Atyeo again.”

Russell Woodford: “Now the dust has settled, I have mixed feelings of ‘what could have been’ but also it’s a great time to be a red in the city compared to our unfortunate blue neighbours on the other side of the river… Now is a great opportunity to build on this season, take the positives and the key objective of being in the playoffs again next season as the minimum expectation. Come on, you Reds!”

Luke Rodford: “Positive. Really positive going into the new season. I just hope the club sees the potential like us fans do.”

READ MORE: Former Bristol City midfielder provides update on future after ‘extremely tough’ injury absenceREAD MORE: Liam Manning recognises need for Max O’Leary competition within Bristol City transfer plans