Further doubt on defender's Portsmouth future as Bristol City boss reiterates need for much-needed back-up

The Championship outfit have been hit by injuries in recent weeks and were unable to name a full bench for their last game against Luton on December 29.

The January transfer window is now open, allowing clubs to bring in fresh faces.

But the Robins are keen to utilise players already on their books as they look for reinforcements.

Thirteen City players have been plying their trade away from Ashton Gate this season, including Pring – who moved to Fratton Park on a season-long loan in August.

The left-back has made 15 appearances for the Blues this term and was due to start Saturday’s trip to Accrington before the fixture was called off because of a frozen pitch.

However, with the Robins having the ability to recall the 22-year-old this month, he might have already played his last game for Pompey.

Kenny Jackett told The News this week he’ll be ready to react if Pring is called back.

And with Bristol youngsters James Morton, Owura Edwards, Saikou Janneh and Marley Watkins already back at Ashton Gate from their respective loan spells, Holden admitted further recalls will be activated.

He told Bristol Live: ‘We're looking to bring back some of our loan players.

‘You'll appreciate that I can't talk publicly about those players just yet but we're talking to their clubs.

‘You can't just recall some players on 1 January - it doesn't work like that.

‘We're in talks and we hope to get those guys in as soon as we can.’

An injury to regular left-back Jay Dasilva has prompted a possible return for Pring.

The England under-21 international needed surgery following a stress fracture of his tibia and is out for several months.

Tommy Rowe is City's only remaining recognised left-back, while Callum O'Dowda has played as a left wing-back on occasions.

Yet, the Irishman is expected to be out for a couple of weeks with a hamstring injury.

If Pring is recalled, he’ll be unable to feature against Pompey in next week’s FA Cup third round after featuring in the two previous rounds for the Blues.

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