Skubala backs Tolaj and Ballard strike partnership

Michael Skubala took over at Ashton Gate this summer [Getty Images] Bristol City manager Michael Skubala has "no doubts" new strikers Lorent Tolaj and Dom Ballard can form a strong partnership. The pair have arrived this summer from Plymouth and Leyton Orient respectively. Despite often playing as lone strikers, Skubala hopes they will have an impact together. "Lorent played in a front two at times at Plymouth," Skubala told BBC Radio Bristol. "Dom Ballard led the line by himself but caused aggro for centre-halves and scored some good goals. "It is part of his journey to learn how to play in a front two if we do that. They can both do it. "I have no doubt Dom Ballard and Lorent Tolaj can be a great partnership for this football club." Goalkeeper Sam Tickle has also arrived from Wigan and Skubala is urging fans to be patient. "Dom, Tolaj, Sam Tickle, they've all got to step up to another level. They are going to take time, we need to be patient. We haven't brought them here just for Saturday." Skubala's first match in charge will be on Saturday at home to Millwall. Latest Bristol City news, analysis and fan views