ANTHONY LLOYD will make his first Town start of the season against Bristol City at Ashton Gate on Saturday.

The 20-year-old steps in at left wing-back because club captain Rob Edwards has suffered a hamstring injury in training.

Edwards, who has been ever-present so far, seems certain to be ruled out for at least two weeks, giving Lloyd the opportunity to establish himself against Brian Tinnion's side.

"It's a big blow for Robbie to be out for two to three weeks, but at least we've got Lloydy champing at the bit to come in," said manager Peter Jackson today.

"Lloydy has been playing well and scoring his share of goals in the Reserves - he got another couple in our practice match at Chesterfield - and I have every faith in him.

"He has had to be very patient this season because Robbie has played well and simply kept him out of the team.

"Now, Lloydy has got the opportunity he's been waiting for and it's up to him to take it."

Lloyd will be making his first start since the play-off final in Cardiff.

The popular former Academy player has, in fact, been on the bench only once for Town this season, against Hartlepool only a month ago.

"Lloydy will be fired up, that's for sure, and he knows only too well the competition we've got for places," added Jackson.

"It is up to him, now, to keep Robbie out of the side and it looks like he'll have the chance to show what he can do against Bristol City on Saturday, Morecambe in the LDV next Tuesday and Walsall the game after that.

"By then, Robbie might be getting back towards fitness, so they are three big games for Lloydy to show us he's not only maintained his form from last season but, hopefully, improved on it.

"I know Lloydy has been very frustrated this time because he did so well in our run to promotion.

"He played almost 40 games having come through from nowhere and he also scored three vital goals for us, so it's no wonder he wanted to be involved again.

"That's not how it's worked out because of Robbie's form, so this is `opportunity knocks' for Anthony Lloyd."

Jackson is still debating whether to play Nat Brown or Nathan Clarke for suspended Efe Sodje at Ashton Gate.