Naismith's controversial transfer saga adds the needle in Bristol City's crunch game with Luton

Feelings of bitterness and jealousy are still likely to linger from the dugout and stand in tomorrow's game when Luton Town visit Ashton Gate.

Two teams who have no real grievances in the past were somehow spurned into unlikely rivals this summer over the Kal Naismith transfer saga and how it developed.

It adds the needle into a contest that already feels important from a City perspective as they go in search of three crucial points. A draw against Wigan on Saturday gave the Robins something to build on and with Cardiff around the corner, tomorrow's game against the Hatters is the ideal time to start hitting the ground running.

At the age of 30, Naismith won't be concerned about the prospect of playing against his old club and the type of reaction, good or bad, he may receive after leaving so abruptly in the summer.

For anyone that needs reminding, City confirmed the surprise signing of Naismith on a free transfer on May 28. It was a deal completely out of blue, catching the media and supporters by surprise as manager Nigel Pearson made his second summer addition.

It also appeared to catch Luton completely unaware. They issued two separate statements in which they claimed they only found out about the transfer after Naismith had rejected their contract offer and joined the Robins.

He departed as Luton's Player of the Year, which only added to the furore surrounding Luton and their fanbase following 18 months at Kenilworth Road.

"We have learnt that Kal Naismith has agreed to join Bristol City when his Luton Town contract comes to an end next month," was the statement posted by his old club on the Sunday - after City announced his arrival on Friday evening.

"We were surprised to discover from our fellow Championship