Atkinson: I've absolutely no clue what the future holds for me

BRISTOL City defender Rob Atkinson said he has “absolutely no clue what the future holds” beyond the end of his loan spell with Portsmouth, having marked his return from injury with a brace in Pompey’s draw with Derby County.

- Dan CARTER [e-mail]

Atkinson, pictured, was one of three senior players to depart Ashton Gate on loan during the January transfer window alongside Fally Mayulu and Kal Naismith, who joined Sturm Graz and Luton Town, respectively. The 26-year-old hasn't made a competitive appearance for the Robins in almost two years, having suffered an ACL injury early in 2023 which was followed by multiple hamstring issues.

While he was a frequent fixture on the City bench in the run-up to the January transfer window, the Robins allowed him to head to Fratton Park on a temporary basis to build his match fitness and confidence.

The former Oxford United defender started brilliantly in Portsmouth colours before suffering a calf injury in Pompey’s win over QPR in February. That issue saw him miss almost two months of action but the centre-back marked his return with two goals, and an own-goal, in John Mousinho’s side's 2-2 draw with Derby on Saturday afternoon.