Football Season Review

Bristol City found the going tough in 2011-12 and looked nailed on for relegation at one stage. Keith Millen disappointed early on in the season and Derek McInnes appeared to be struggling after his honeymoon had ended. But the Scot was able to ensure City put together a late run to keep them in the Championship. Nicky Maynard started the season unsettled and eventually left in the January transfer window to join West Ham. The fact that he played for so long wanting a move away from the club disrupted things but when he departed City were very weak in attack despite the loan signing of Chris Wood. McInnes’ desire to play a 4-5-1 system meant his side struggled for goals and the only time they looked a threat in an offensive sense was when Jon Stead and Brett Pitman were partnered in attack. McInnes’ reluctance to play the pair together appears a mystery. Too many loan signings from McInnes in desperation meant that the style of play was not always consistent and McInnes will now look to put together a more settled side in the summer months.

Player of the Season: Jon Stead