Gareth Chilcott is still optimistic about the playing side at Bristol

Former England international Gareth Chilcott believes Bristol face a bleak future unless more investment is put into the Memorial Stadium club.

The club are currently seven points adrift at the foot of the Premiership.

On-field woes are compounded by unconfirmed reports that general manager Corin Palmer could leave.

Chilcott told BBC Radio Bristol: "If they don't go down, they could be in a worse position with a lesser budget next year. It's a huge problem."

I can't believe that Bristol won't beat Newcastle in a cup final-type scenario but... we have to pick up points on the road elsewhere Former England and Bath prop Gareth Chilcott

The former England and Bath prop said the club needed a "big lump of cash" to compete with other Premiership sides.

Speaking ahead of next month's crunch clash against rivals Newcastle, he said: "The actual playing side, I believe, can stay up.

"I can't believe that Bristol won't beat Newcastle in a cup final-type scenario but... we have to pick up points on the road elsewhere."

Quizzed about the rumours regarding Palmer, a spokesman for the club has told the BBC that it would be "inappropriate to comment on any employees status".

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