James says he was hung over when he first got the call from Steve Coppell

Bristol City goalkeeper David James has revealed that when he first got a call from manager Steve Coppell he believed it was a joke.

"I thought someone was trying to pull my leg initially," he told BBC Bristol.

"I'd just had a stag do and it was 10 o'clock in the morning and I was certainly worse for wear."

And the England international admitted that had he got the call from any other Championship manager he would have completely dismissed it.

James continued: "It sounded nice and if it hadn't been Steve Coppell I would have ignored it straight away. It wouldn't have worked any other way.

There's a bit of banter flying already - they're not too happy about the hair style but there you go David James

"Bristol's finish last season was decent and the manager is someone I have a high respect for.

"Having seen him now for the two days [in training] it makes sense."

The 40-year-old has also been impressed by supporters and players.

"Having met a lot of fans in a short space of time the reaction has been very warm and positive which is nice.

"I've liked what I've seen in training - there's a lot of talent here.

"There's a bit of banter flying already - they're not too happy about the hair style but there you go," joked James.

"In the Premier League I had the opportunity to extend a few records but I thought 'so what' they're all going to get broken.

"The opportunity to be a record holder for a brief time compared to being part of a team that gains promotion to the Premiership for the first time is more important to me."

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