Billy Clarke was impressed by the Bantams’ performance following a behind-closed-doors pre-season visit of Doncaster Rovers.
The forward was among the goal-scorers - alongside Kurtis Guthrie - as Stuart McCall’s side were narrowly beaten by Sky Bet League One opposition at the Utilita Energy Stadium.
Clarke was delighted to be back on home turf and is looking forward to future outings as the beginning of the 2020/21 season approaches.
He said: “It was a good exercise for us, to get minutes in the tank. It was also great to be back out on the Valley Parade turf.
“We scored some really good goals and, overall, it was a productive day. There were plenty of positives to take from the performance.
“Although we are still only in pre-season, we want to enjoy good form and carry that into the campaign.
“We have had a long lay-off and to be back playing games and improving is key, at this stage.
“Getting on the pitch and contesting matches is where you learn the most. Coming up against a good Doncaster side was an important test.”
The Irishman insists there are positive noises coming from the City camp, and hopes McCall’s men can build upon the levels reached so far.
Clarke feels optimistic ahead of his fifth season in claret and amber, and is determined to achieve success.
He added: “There have certainly been encouraging signs in training and we will keep the effort levels high.
“We need to be fit and sharp all over the pitch, to be able to play the way we want to, over the course of the season.
“Some teams will come and try to play out and really take the game to us, and others will not. It will vary on a game-by-game basis, but we have the adaptability to play in different ways.
“With the group of players we have, high energy off the ball is key and, when we are on the ball, we have players who will make things happen.”
Clarke and his team-mates will contest their next pre-season friendly at Huddersfield Town’s Canalside training ground on Wedensday (6.00pm). CLICK HERE for full details.