Johnson says Basso is due to sit down soon with chairman Stephen Lansdown

Bristol City boss Gary Johnson says he is hopeful keeper Adriano Basso will sign a contract soon after originally turning one down in the close season.

Basso, 34, is still on the transfer list but he is set to make a second successive appearance against Scunthorpe on Saturday.

"We've never wanted to lose Bass ever," Johnson told BBC Points West.

"We speak to Bass every week or so and it's got to the stage where we need players to pledge their future."

He added: "I don't actually think [the discussion] has been in an office with the chairman but it will be once they can both get together."

Basso had been hoping for a move to a Premier League club but Bristol City say they have received no offers.

"You always worry that when you lose somebody in the head, you lose them when they start playing games and training," Johnson said.

"But he's trained his heart out, waited for his opportunity and not moaned about sitting on the bench."

City are about to embark on a run of four home games in six days and Johnson says the input of the fans will he a big factor.

"When you're at home, the fans are part of your tactics, part of your commitment, part of your enthusiasm and they're certainly part of your confidence.

"As I say, every three points we earn here, they earn part of it."

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