SCOTT Parker explained the reasons behind the absences of both Ben Pearson and Adam Smith from the trip to Ashton Gate.

The pair have been key members of Cherries' starting XI in recent weeks, with the club still unbeaten and top of the Championship table.

But neither made the trip to Bristol City, although Cherries still emerged comfortable 2-0 winners.

Two men who came into the side, Jack Stacey and Jamal Lowe, combined for the opener with the latter firing in his first Cherries goal.

Jordan Zemura then added to the tally with a fine solo effort.

Discussing the absence of Smith, Parker told afcbTV: "Adam Smith is just struggling with a knee.

"He picked up a bit of a knee injury. He had an injection midweek. We tried to go for this game, it's not proven to be the case.

"We'll see how he is and if he has progressed and hopefully he has a chance for Tuesday (against Stoke)."

Parker also confirmed Pearson was suspended for the trip to Bristol City having picked up his fifth yellow card of the season against Sheffield United last time out, in just his ninth league appearance.

Confusion appeared to arise in some quarters as one of Pearson's bookings is understood to have been shown after the final whistle of the 0-0 draw against Peterborough United last month.