Liam Ridehalgh expects a tough test in South Yorkshire on Saturday, and hopes the Bantams can improve creatively as they travel to the Eco-Power Stadium to face Doncaster Rovers.
The left-back predicts another tactical battle against Danny Schofield’s side, but believes if City can showcase their attacking talent, they can return to winning ways.
The 31-year-old is delighted to be back playing in claret and amber after recently returning from injury, and believes coming in to a new system makes him a more adaptable and versatile defender.
Ridehalgh said: “We have to be expressive going forward. We will be looking to do that against Doncaster.
“It will be a tough game. They will be similar to Barrow in how they press and work off the ball, but we have to be more threatening going forward.
“For me, there is a lot of running involved (in this position). As defenders, we have to be cautious in case we are required to defend, but I enjoy the challenge.
“It is all about adaptability. I am learning every game, and even though I am 31, I am progressing my game and learning so much.
“I am delighted to be back in the team after what was a frustrating time for me personally.
“Hopefully, we can push on as a team, get some wins and, importantly for me, I can stay in the team.
“There were two injuries that stemmed from Walsall in September. Luckily, it is behind me and I can push on.
“You do have to draw on your experience in the game, but it was still difficult. If that happens again, then I will deal with it better.
“I cannot change what has happened, but I am looking towards the future now, and, my eyes are on promotion.”
Ridehalgh assessed the Bantams' inability to break down Barrow on Saturday, and the subsequent disappointment at ending the successful week on a low, but expects City to bounce back.
The former Tranmere defender is looking forward to playing in front of a sold-out away end tomorrow, as 4,000 Bantams are set to make the trip across Yorkshire, but acknowledges the importance of leaving Doncaster with three points.
“We were not at our highest standard against Barrow,” he concluded.
“We looked lethargic and could not break them down.
“It can be tough when teams sit back and defend. We need to take ownership though, and show how good we are going forward.
“We wanted the nine points, but came away with six, which is still great, but we are still disappointed.
“With Doncaster on Saturday though, and over 4,000 fans behind us, our aim is send them home happy with three points.
“It is just another game for us, but the fans will make it a spectacle. It is fantastic for the football club, and it will be brilliant to play in.
“The aim is to send them home smiling, but we are just thinking of the three points. We need to push up the table.”