Bristol City head coach Liam Manning has revealed the risk he took in signing Scott Twine on a permanent deal last summer after the attacking midfielder scored a stunning free-kick in the 2-1 victory over Blackburn Rovers at Ashton Gate.
Twine’s goal was his sixth of the season and underscored his growing reputation as a decisive player in key moments.
“I put my neck on the line a little bit to try and bring him here in the summer,” Manning admitted. Twine reunited with his former MK Dons manager on a four-year deal worth around £3.2m plus add-ons, despite enduring a challenging loan spell at Bristol City earlier in 2024.
Twine’s Journey to Ashton Gate
Twine initially joined the Robins on loan last January but struggled with injuries, including a quad problem on his debut against Watford, which sidelined him for ten weeks. Despite a slow start, the midfielder impressed in the final stages of last season, prompting Manning to make the move permanent.
Since his return, Twine has showcased his talent, delivering crucial goals, including winners against Luton and Millwall, and several spectacular free-kicks. Manning praised Twine’s creativity, saying,
“You have to give him an element of freedom to be creative and to try things. That’s what you get with creative players.”
Master of Free-Kicks
Twine’s reputation as a free-kick specialist has grown significantly. Since working with Manning at MK Dons, he has scored 13 free-kick goals, four of which have come in a Bristol City shirt. His ability to step up in pressure situations has become a hallmark of his game. Manning highlighted Twine’s technique and years of practice as the foundation for his success, noting, “He doesn’t do anything particularly special. It’s just years of work perfecting his craft.”
Consistency and Impact
While Twine’s performances occasionally lack consistency, his ability to deliver in critical moments has made him an invaluable asset for Bristol City. His contributions have been pivotal in the club’s push for a top-six finish. With six goals already this season, Twine is becoming a key figure in Manning’s squad, offering both creativity and a reliable source of goals.
Writer’s View
Scott Twine’s resurgence under Liam Manning exemplifies the impact a manager’s trust and understanding can have on a player’s performance. His free-kick expertise and knack for stepping up in decisive moments have added a new dimension to Bristol City’s attacking play. As the Robins continue their push for a playoff spot, Twine’s contributions could prove to be the difference in achieving their goals this season.
