Timm Klose is a doubt for Bristol City’s Championship encounter against Huddersfield Town on Wednesday with the veteran Swiss defender nursing a knee injury that will be assessed in the build-up to the game.
Klose was absent from the City squad for the first time in the Championship this season at Blackpool on Saturday, as although the 33-year-old has found himself fourth-choice in Pearson’s three-man defence has provided valuable cover from the bench.
The former Norwich City defender didn’t train on Monday with the first-team squad but Pearson admits he and, to an extent, the medical staff will lean on the centre-back’s knowledge of his own body before making a decision on his matchday 18 for the visit of the Terriers.
“He’s got a knee injury but Timm’s Timm, he’s downstairs and he might be available for Wednesday, we’ll see,” said Pearson. “But Timm’s a bit different - he won’t need to do too much, he’s an experienced player. If he feels okay and he says he feels okay, I’ll run with his judgement on that.”
Although Pearson appears relaxed by that situation, the game at Ashton Gate could mean that City run the risk of a second straight game with no centre-back cover on the bench as Tomas Kalas continues his recovery from knee trouble.
Full-back George Tanner did start against Wycombe Wanders in the Carabao Cup on the right-hand side of the three and could well have done enough where his manager feels he's at least an option as a substitute, should an injury befall one of his starting trio of Kal Naismith, Rob Atkinson and Zak Vyner.
Pearson has admitted he would like to add another central defender before Thursday’s deadline, given the lack of depth in the position, but his hands are tied to an extent as the Robins will only be active in the market should someone be sold.
Should Klose not be given the green light to play, Pearson could turn to Cam Pring to fulfil the support role - with Ryley Towler another option - with the versatile defender having been in and out of the matchday squad as he’s been omitted on four occasions in the Championship, despite remaining fit and having started and played 90 minutes in both Carabao Cup ties.
Pring did play at centre-back on a few occasions last season but is largely considered as a left-back/left wing-back and although the manager wouldn’t expand too much on his current situation, did hint at some possible tension surrounding the 24-year-old.
“He’s a member of our squad,” Pearson added, confirming Print wasn't injured when he was left out at Bloomfield Road. “I think this always happens and I get a bit tired of explaining it but the bench is selected on what we think is right and if people’s noses are put out by it, tough. I’m not bothered.”
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