Bantams boss David Hopkin has paid tribute to City’s travelling support, following yesterday’s trip to Blackpool.
Bradford were backed by more than 1,800 fans, making up more than 40 per-cent of the overall attendance at the Seasiders’ Bloomfield Road.
And the City head coach was full of praise after the final whistle, having watched his side lose out to a late Blackpool fightback.
“The support was absolutely fantastic, the fans gave us great backing and I hope those who came went away knowing we are heading in the right direction,” said Hopkin, who took over the coaching reins on Tuesday.
“The result didn’t go our way and it was bitterly disappointing to lose having led by two goals.
“But the performance has given us something to build on. We stood up to the challenge, despite being low on numbers due to injuries.
“I asked the players for a performance and they showed great spirit.
“I felt we nullified Blackpool’s threats in the second half and did well to go in front.
“Their goals came from nothing and we should have seen the game out.
“Three mistakes were the difference. If we don’t make them then we win the game.
“I am very confident we can bring the players up to speed and improve our performances. The results will come off the back of a lot of hard work.
The Bantams suffered a double injury setback in the days leading up to Saturday’s fixture.
Hope Akpan dislocated a shoulder in training and scans have revealed a fractured fibula for defender Adam Chicksen, following his collision with Fleetwood Town’s Wes Burns last weekend.
Both Akpan and Chicksen are facing lengthy spells on the sidelines, with goalkeeper Ben Wilson (knee) and Curtis Peters (ankle) also ruled out.
However, Sean Scannell is expected to be available for selection on Saturday, with Jake Reeves (groin) and Alex Jones (hamstring) set to return to full training in the next fortnight.
Josh Wright and Kelvin Mellor picked up knocks during yesterday’s game and will be fully assessed in the next 24 hours.
Hopkin added: “Losing Hope in midweek was a setback for us and we are going to be without Adam for at least five or six weeks.
“But we have got bodies coming back and the injured players are in the best-possible hands with our medical team.”
City play host to Charlton Athletic on Saturday, marking David Hopkin’s first home game in charge (3.00pm).
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