Nigel Pearson believes Jamie Paterson had stayed at Bristol City too long and needed a change of scenery with the playmaker set to face the Robins on Sunday in the colours of Swansea City.
Paterson was part of a considerable summer clear-out which saw the exits of a number of first-team players following the expiry of their contracts, which served as both a cost-cutting exercise - with the Robins reducing their wage bill by an estimated £6m - but also a chance to refresh and reinvigorate the squad.
The 30-year-old signed for City in 2016 and had been a key player in the memorable 2017/18 squad, earning him particular gravitas amongst sections of the fanbase who appreciated his mercurial talents.
