Republic of Ireland international Mark Sykes says he has not opened talks with Bristol City over a new contract.
The winger’s deal at Ashton Gate runs out at the end of the season, despite featuring 17 times in the Championship this season.
Sykes’ form at the Robins since joining from Oxford United in 2022 earned him recognition on the international stage.
The 28-year-old made his debut three years ago and has gone on to represent his country on seven occasions. He was also initially called up to the World Cup qualifying squad last month but had to pull out through injury.
Mark Sykes makes Bristol City contract admission
Speaking to BBC Bristol, he said: “Hopefully in the next couple of weeks, couple of months, something can happen but where we stand now, I haven’t heard anything from the club and I’ve been offered nothing.
“As far as I know, I’ve got six months left and I’ll work as hard as I can, every game’s important and keep cracking on, get my head down, keep going.”
Sykes’ contract situation is sure to have numerous Championship clubs on alert over his future.
He was linked with a move to Stoke City last season, but the club activated the one-year clause in his contract to keep him in Bristol until at least the summer of 2026.
How it could affect Ireland
Sykes will undoubtedly be putting everything into making the squad for the play-off against Czech Republic in March.
A victory will see Ireland take on either Denmark or North Macedonia in a do-or-die contest to book a spot at the World Cup.
Speaking of missing out on the qualifiers, he added: “I was in the squad, and I got that gash on my leg and unfortunately had to pull out of what looked like an amazing camp. The lads did really well and credit to them, but it’s still a long way to go.
“I couldn’t believe it, to be honest, because the odds were against us, but we came out on top. As I say, we haven’t cracked it just yet, but come March, we’ll see where we stand and hopefully [we’ll have] something to look forward to in the summer.”
Sykes may have to be patient from the Ireland bench to get his opportunity, but his performances for his country – particularly if Ireland book their World Cup spot – could shape his future.
It’s far from unusual for players not to use the biggest stage of all to showcase their abilities and put themselves in the shop window.
Sykes’ international team-mate Troy Parrott has attracted the attention of Leeds and Stuttgart after his five-goal haul against Portugal and Hungary.
On the flip side of that, Bristol City boss Gerard Struber may look to limit Sykes’ gametime if he determines he has no future at Ashton Gate.
That will undoubtedly harm his chances of featuring under Heimir Hallgrimsson and the Boys in Green.
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