Struber struggling to solve Robins' defensive issues

Bristol City boss Gerhard Struber says he is struggling to find a solution to their defensive issues.

With the experienced duo of Rob Dickie and Rob Atkinson sidelined with long-term injuries, Struber says they have to try to find a way to adjust better without them.

"It's a challenge - Rob Atkinson and Rob Dickie are normally always on the field as they are two of our most experienced players with a lot of quality and with them not available it is hard," he told BBC Radio Bristol as they prepare for Saturday's Championship match at home to leaders Coventry [15:00 GMT].

"We have to deal with that and we want to bring out the best from the players who are in the back line right now.

"The job is to deal with a challenge like that."

Dickie is out for at least eight weeks with a hamstring injury while Atkinson's ankle problem will keep him out of action for 10 weeks.

"We are not alone in this problem, other teams in the league have issues but our roster is not as big as others," added Struber.

Midfielder Ross McCrorie is doubtful for the visit of the Sky Blues because of a hamstring issue.

Bristol City are currently tenth in the Championship table, seven points short of the top six.