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Bristol City make huge decision ahead of new season –

Bristol City striker Tommy Conway has been forced to train with the club’s under-21s as speculation over his future continues, according to Bristol Live.

The 21-year-old is out of contract next summer, although he has been offered new terms. Determined not to lose their talisman on a free in 12 months’ time, the Robins are keen to reach a resolution this summer.

Conway came through City’s academy before making his debut in 2021. A year later, he secured a first-team starting spot, finishing his first full campaign with 12 goals in all competitions.

He mirrored that achievement last season, picking up the club’s Young Player of the Year award. That form saw the forward earn a place in Scotland’s EURO 2024 squad, although he failed to make an appearance at the tournament.

Bristol City make huge decision ahead of new season –

It’s no secret that the Championship side are keen to extend Conway’s stay at Ashton Gate. Speaking in May, manager Liam Manning commented on the situation, saying BBC:

“Obviously it’s not ideal for me. Tommy has a decision to make.

“We made him a great offer as a club, I think it’s the best place for him. I totally understand if someone’s journey is going miles faster than the team’s, then I understand the move.

“At the moment he’s at the level he’s still challenged. I think he’s put in some good performances, I still think he’s got a lot to do and improve on, which I’m sure he’d agree with.”

The youngster has been linked with both Old Firm clubs, with Glasgow World claiming the duo could consider a pre-contract offer. As the deal is between clubs from two different nations, this could see his current employers receive just £300,000 in compensation.

It’s no surprise to see Manning eager to sort out the forward’s future. This latest decision has seen the club take a tough line, with the former Oxford United boss confirming that Conway will train with the under-21s:

“Tommy had a contract offer on the table, which is an excellent offer. This was refused and was not negotiated with the player expressing his desire to leave.

“The decision has been made for him to train with the U21s, focusing entirely on players who are fully involved in what we are trying to achieve.

“We hope to add to our lot in the new future. It’s been a positive couple of weeks with the team and I’m happy with the way things are going. We are preparing for the pre-season friendlies, which will be a good test for the players.”

The writer’s vision

This is now a very messy situation, but you have to back Bristol City on this one. Conway is a very valuable player for the Robins and to lose him virtually for free next summer would be a massive blow. As it is a local player, any fee received would be pure profit and could be reinvested directly back into the playing team.

In addition, the striker should not be punished for wanting to play at a higher level, if that is indeed his reasons for turning down the offers presented to him. However, his form over the last two seasons has seen him attract potential suitors and his interest should continue to build. It will not do this if starting the new campaign from the first team setup.

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