Tomorrow Phil Parkinson goes back to Bradford.
Yeah, that`s a huge part of the narrative, our manager who did so much for them. He`ll get a hostile reception because they still hurt, but there`s a much more important issue.
We need another three points to get Bolton Wanderers out of this division. While we didn`t sell out as far as I know, we`ll still be taking a big following to Valley Parade.
After a dry January, our form has turned for the better, a point at MK Dons a fortnight ago followed up by two wins at home in the last week. I would prefer Sheffield United and Scunthorpe to draw against each other, but if Scunny were to lose, we would go second with a win.
Vital Quotes:
“If we can show that same spirit and determination as we showed against Rochdale, hopefully with a bit more quality on the ball, as we did in the Walsall game, then we will be fine.”
Parkinson ahead of tomorrow, via the Bolton News
Bradford City Team News:
Bradford have no new injury worries, Alex Jones and Matt Kilgallon are two names that will be missing.
Player to watch: Charlie Wyke
Wyke is a recent signing from Carlisle, and has made a fairly quick impact, setting up a couple of goals as well as bagging one for himself. He looks a man in form and imperative for our backline to watch him.
Bolton Wanderers Team News:
Jay Spearing starts a two-match ban after picking up a tenth booking on Tuesday, which should mean a return to the side for Tom Thorpe. Andy Taylor came off with a hamstring problem in midweek, so expect Dean Moxey at left-wing back. Reece Wabara won`t feature, likely to play in the development side first as he has had no football this season.
Player to watch: Filipe Morais
It isn`t just the gaffer returning to Bradford. Filipe Morais made the switch to the correct side of the Pennines a few weeks ago, and has shown early promise in his first three Wanderers appearances. Hopefully he can stick one up his previous employers on his fourth.
Match Facts & Stats
This is our first competitive visit since the 1998-99 season, when we blew a lead and drew 2-2.
Bradford have won one, then drew their next three in the four home games played at Valley Parade in 2017. Bolton have two draws from their two league away games this calendar year at Coventry and MK Dons.
This is 17th v 14th in the form table (last six games)
Bradford have drawn 15 games this season, more than anybody in League One.
We`ve scored two more goals than Bradford this season, but apparently Bradford are more fun to watch now. Or so their fans insist.
Match Prediction:
With Spearing missing I am a little concerned. It`ll be a tough away game, they will be up for it. Hope I`m wrong but I wouldn`t be surprised to see them nicking it 1-0.
Next Fixtures:
We have Sheffield United away next weekend before hosting Wimbledon seven days later.