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Bristol Post
Bristol Post
Sport
David Byrom

'A smaller Jack Wilshire' - 'Secret Scout' gives verdict on League Two star Bristol City are set to beat Derby County and Hull City to

A Bristol City target has won the backing of a national newspaper.

The Robins are reportedly close to sealing a deal for Colchester United's Sammie Szmodics, who is out of contract at the League Two club.

There has been some competition for his signature, with Derby County and Hull City also linked this summer, whilst Premier League Bournemouth were credited with an interest in the playmaker in January.

The Daily Mail's self-styled Secret Scout recently ran a report on Szmodics, and they were impressed with what they saw.

They wrote: "This diminutive lad playing off the front reminded me at times of a smaller version of Jack Wilshere: all left foot and no doubt there are other similarities.

"A playmaker in an individual way, he is without outstanding vision at close quarters but is nevertheless an effective forward in a team who just missed the play-offs.

"His movement with the ball was eye-catching, racing through the middle third and making an accurate pass. When he had less time to surge, he was economical with his passing and, supported in midfield by a designated holding player, he received a good supply of ball.

"Spotting early on that his wide-right player had the ascendancy over his opponent, he constantly fed him. This showed his intelligence to identify weakness in an opponent and capitalise.

"His character looks good and he has been important this season in creating chances and weighing in with goals of his own."

'An offer we couldn't refuse' - Mark Ashton on why Bristol City sold Lloyd Kelly to Bournemouth  

When it came to what the Robins target can improve, the Secret Scout just continued to praise Szmodics.

They wrote: "He is not the biggest or most powerful but he does not get intimidated by bigger, more muscular opponents.

"More importantly, he is home-grown and credit goes to manager John McGreal for encouraging youth in his team. It was good to see a talented footballer amid the hurly-burly of lower-league football."

At 23, the Robins will have to pay Colchester compensation should they sign the player/

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