BRISTOL City striker Stern John finds himself in the unexpected position of being able to make amends.
And if his previous record in games against the Robins is anything to go by, it is the very least he can do.
Gary Johnson's recruitment of John was no mere shot in the dark. City's manager has first-hand experience of the damage he can inflict. City fans will recall the goal John scored for Coventry in a FA Cup third-round encounter at Ashton Gate in January 2007.
Although that tie finished 3-3 and City went on to win the replay 2-0 at the Ricoh Arena, the one-time Premier League striker served notice of his prowess in front of goal.
If City's defenders required further evidence of the threat posed, the goal John scored for Saints at St Mary's in April this year provided a timely reminder.
Displaying a poacher's instincts, he timed his run to the far post to perfection to put the south coast side on course for a 2-0 victory which many City watchers believe cost their side automatic promotion to the Premier League.
Now a City player himself, John is determined to redress the balance in any way he can.
"There's no better way than to score for Bristol," said the much-travelled striker. "I feel I owe City a few goals after the ones I've scored against them.
"That's what I've come here for and I want to start scoring and pick up where I left off at Southampton last season just as quickly as possible."
If John is motivated by a desire to secure a long-term deal at Ashton Gate when the January transfer window opens, he is also driven by a desire to repay City fans for the warmth with which they have welcomed him.
The loan signing was given a standing ovation when making his home debut in Tuesday's clash against Sheffield United.
He said: "It's a good feeling when the supporters give you such a good reception.They cheered when my name was read out over the tannoy and they've made me feel very welcome since I've been here. Now I want to reward them for the faith they've shown in me by scoring some goals for them."
He is presumably planning on opening his account in tomorrow's mouthwatering Championship showdown with Reading. Held in reserve so far, John made a powerful case for promotion when replacing Dele Adebola on Tuesday night. John insists he is nearing his best form following weeks of frustration at cash-strapped Southampton. He said: " I've not played as many games as I would have liked.
"But I had nearly 90 minutes at Sheffield United the other week and coming off the bench in the last two games for City has helped me become sharper. I'm feeling good in myself and, hopefully, people will see the real Stern John very soon."
He added: "I feel I did well when I came on the other night and I'd love to play from the start. It's another massive game and I want to show the fans what I can do.
"But it's not for me to say what the team should be. That's a job for the manager and he knows what's best.
"I'm always hopeful, but we'll just have to wait and see."