Brian Howard trains with Bristol City

Bristol City head coach Sean O'Driscoll has revealed that the club have taken former Reading striker Brian Howard on trial.

The 30-year-old is currently a free agent having departed Portsmouth last month, but he could be set for a quick return to action.

"Brian is someone I've tried to sign before at Crawley but it wasn't such an attractive prospect as joining Bristol City," O'Driscoll told reporters.

"He's not long had a hernia operation so we need to do some due diligence and see where his fitness is. He'd be a great asset for us, a great personality to have in the dressing room, but we'll have to see whether we offer him anything."

Howard had his contract with Portsmouth cancelled in January.