'City may need to gamble if they are to challenge'

What do City need in January?

City could use another striker to convert some of the chances they have created. Nahki Wells has developed into first-choice striker as Sinclair Armstrong and Fally Mayulu get to grips with Championship football – both players are young and Liam Manning will hope there's more to come from them.

Whether another addition is realistic given the money they invested in the pair over the summer is another matter.

What sort of business are they likely to do?

Unless City have some additional money that Steve Lansdown is willing to spend, or players depart - they won't be able to significantly strengthen their squad. There's also financial fair play to take into account.

How successful have they been in recent January windows?

Twelve months ago, Max Bird was signed from Derby, but loaned back for the rest of the season. Scott Twine was signed on loan from Burnley – and then joined on a permanent basis in the summer. Adedire Mebude was signed on loan last year, but failed to make an impression.

There are examples of City using January as an opportunity to build for the future – for example they signed highly-rated Josh Stokes 12 months ago, and also paid a fee for Bird in the new year as opposed with having to deal with more competition in free agency.

The question is are they now able or willing to sign a player or two who can make a more immediate impact on this occasion?

Are there likely to be any notable departures?

City have had a conveyor belt of young talent being sold in recent times – Antoine Semenyo, Alex Scott and Tommy Conway spring to mind.

On this occasion I'd be surprised if City lose an important first-team player unless they need to sell players to bring money in to invest back into the squad.

Harry Cornick has warmed the bench all season – I imagine it'll suit all parties if a deal with another club can be reached.

How important is the transfer window likely to be in determining the success of their season?

As things stand, City are heading for another mid-table finish. I think the consensus is they may need to gamble in the transfer market if they're to genuinely challenge the top six this season.