Vitek's 'eye-catching display' on debut for Bristol City

Goalkeeper Radek Vitek made his debut for Bristol City on loan from Manchester United on Saturday - and it could hardly have gone any better.

Vitek played 18 league games in a loan spell at Accrington Stanley in 2024 and, before Saturday, they were his only senior appearances in English football.

The 21-year-old was loaned out by United again last season as he gained more experience playing in the Austrian top flight.

But it was in the early evening sunshine in Sheffield where Vitek appeared to come of age. A commanding figure in his area, he repaid boss Gerhard Struber's faith with an eye-catching display.

With his side leading 2-1 he made a fine one-handed save to deny Sheffield United's Louie Barry, also keeping out Sydie Peck before the break. At the time, they felt like significant moments in keeping his new team ahead at half-time.

And so it proved as Bristol City veered out of sight with the two goals they scored in a rampaging start to the second half.

However, even at 4-1, Vitek was still alert to make smart interventions on the occasions home side had sight of his goal. One late save in particular - keeping out a point-blank range Peck header - had the Bristol City fans chanting his name even louder.

Vitek was encouraged to be front and centre of the post-match celebrations, waving his arms with glee in front of the travelling support.