Nigel Pearson has stated that it’s ‘not really a possibility’ for young talent Sam Bell to depart Bristol City on loan in January.
City’s rich front line of Antoine Semenyo, Nahki Wells and Tommy Conway has halted Bell’s progression from the under-21s into the first team this season, however recent injuries and speculation of potential outgoings have secured Bell’s future in the West Country.
Conway and Andi Weimann limped off injured in Sunday’s FA Cup third round draw with Swansea City, while Semenyo has been linked with moves to the Premier League and Bundesliga in recent weeks.
“There was a lot of interest in the summer to take him on loan,” Pearson said on Bell. “Our view on that is that loan deals for players have to be right and Sam’s the type of personality and player that has gained more benefit from staying with us.”
Bell himself has been a rumoured target for League One Cheltenham Town of late. His father, Micky, played for the Robins in the 2006-07 season, where he appeared 16 times under John Ward.
The striker has featured six times for City this season, and netted his sole goal against Coventry City in the EFL Cup.
The 20-year-old has been in fine form for the young Robins, and his goals and performances have guided Ali Hines’ side to first place in the Under-23 Professional Development League with 15 games played.
“With his good form this year, he will get more opportunities between now and the end of the season,” Pearson added. “It’s not really a possibility for him to go out on loan, because we didn’t feel it was right in the summer and we think he can have a very positive contribution for us this season.”
