Smith sits out derby
Swindon defender Alex Smith will sit out this weekend clash's with local rivals Bristol City.
The former Fulham defender is currently wearing a knee brace as he waits for a scan on his injury and he will miss out on the first league match between the sides since 2006.
And manager Mark Cooper's options are even more limited as he is without Tijane Reid, sidelined with a knee injury, as well as influential playmaker Alex Pritchard, on loan with the club from Tottenham, and right-back Nathan Byrne.
Pritchard will serve his one-match ban for five yellow cards while Byrne will sit out the second of his three game ban. In-form Ryan Mason looks set to start once more as they look to inflict more misery on a City side yet to pick up three points since relegation to this level.
Bristol City's options are boosted by the return of Jordan Wynter and Neil Kilkenny.
The pair had both been missing with knocks but they have returned to full training as the Robins look to pick up three points for the first time this season.
Meanwhile head coach Sean O'Driscoll has revealed Stephen Pearson's ankle injury will keep him sidelined for the next six months. Pearson has not played since April and is now aiming to play a part in the latter part of the Sky Bet League One campaign.
Jay Emmanuel-Thomas is set to start at Ashton Gate after another goal in the 1-1 draw with Shrewsbury on Tuesday while fellow forward Ryan Taylor is poised for a return to light activity following an ankle problem.
Source: PA
