Key Highlights
- Sinclair Armstrong impresses with a “bigger” impact off the bench for Bristol City.
- Gerhard Struber explains that his coaching staff has been working on improving Armstrong’s timing and runs behind the defence.
- Armstrong played a crucial role in Bristol City’s win over Southampton, contributing both in and out of possession.
- The 22-year-old Ireland international is expected to continue making an impact for the Robins as they aim to build on last season’s play-off finish.
Struber Sees Improvement in Sinclair Armstrong’s Game
Bristol City manager Gerhard Struber has praised the recent performances of Sinclair Armstrong, stating that the 22-year-old forward is making a significant impact off the bench. In a match against Southampton, Armstrong played for 38 minutes and helped contribute to Bristol City’s comeback win.
Armstrong’s Role in the Win
In his substitute appearance on October 17, 2025, Armstrong almost provided an assist when he deflected Zak Vyner’s shot onto the inside of Alex McCarthy’s post. This allowed Scott Twine to score from close range and secure Bristol City’s victory with a 3-1 win. Struber highlighted that Armstrong is “a pain in the backside to defend,” noting his ability to hold up possession and win free-kicks.
Coaching Efforts Panning Out
Struber has been working closely with Armstrong on improving his timing and runs behind the defence. The manager explained, “Armstrong helps us with his pace and also with his timing – how we come behind — and I think their centre-backs were scared about him, especially with his pace.” According to Struber, this improvement is a result of both his coaching and Armstrong’s own hard work. The manager added that Armstrong is “super quick” and has become better at making smart tactical decisions when coming from the back.
Background on Armstrong’s Development
Since joining Bristol City in 2024, Sinclair Armstrong has had limited competitive game time, particularly during his first season under now-Norwich City boss Liam Manning. However, under Struber’s guidance, Armstrong has shown significant improvement over the past few weeks. Prior to the October international break, Armstrong had played just 113 minutes of Championship football in nine league matches.
Struber further elaborated on his coaching approach: “We work and speak with him, and we try to develop him in a direction that he is, for us, helpful.
In forward runs, he is a really big monster; he is super quick, and very powerful. I think right now, he is better with his timing,” Struber stated. The manager emphasized the importance of Armstrong’s tactical awareness, saying, “It’s very unpredictable for them, but he’s more smart – tactical-wise — when he comes from the back.“
Looking Forward to Continued Improvement
Bristol City is aiming to build on last season’s play-off finish under Gerhard Struber. With Sinclair Armstrong showing promising signs of improvement, the club hopes to see more impactful performances from him in future matches. The forward’s recent contributions have been a key factor in Bristol City’s back-to-back league wins for only the second time this term.
Struber remains confident in Armstrong’s development: “Right now, we have a bigger impact, and it is good to see that he helps the team and himself.” As Bristol City continues its journey in the Championship, fans can look forward to seeing more of Armstrong’s pace and tactical awareness contributing to the Robins’ success.
