Struber: It was a really big hit in the face for us

GERHARD Struber admitted the injury to Rob Atkinson that compounded Bristol City's heavy defeat to Stoke was "not good".

- DANIEL CARTER at the bet365 Stadium

Atkinson was withdrawn early in the second period as the Robins were thrashed 5-1 by the Potters at the bet365 Stadium to suffer their first away defeat of the League campaign, also ending their three-match winning run.

A Divin Mubama hat-trick as well as a goal apiece for Million Manhoef and Junior Tchamadeu ensured that Mark Sykes' late header was little more than a consolation to leave Bristol City fifth in the standings after 13 matches.

Atkinson was replaced by Haydon Roberts just a few minutes into the second half. The defender had gone to ground and received treatment after Stoke's fourth goal.

"I think this looks not good," Struber said in his post-match press conference. "At the moment, I have no clear diagnosis. I spoke with our doc (and) it goes in the direction of a hamstring injury. We have to look tomorrow, we want to make a scan and then we are clearer, but right now, it looks not good."