David Hopkin has spoken of a “fantastic opportunity” as the Bantams prepare to take on Peterborough United in the second round of the Emirates FA Cup.
City drew 1-1 at Peterborough’s ABAX Stadium two weeks ago in Sky Bet League One and will look to better that result in order to progress to the next stage of the competition.
Bantams boss Hopkin is anticipating a difficult test but one his side is relishing.
The former Livingston head coach said: “Peterborough are a very good side, with very good players. They have depth which allows them to make changes at any time, as we saw in the first game against us.
“They have great wingers and a strong midfield. I don’t think they will change much from the previous game. There is an array of talent amongst their front five or six players and we know it will be a hard game.
“We are looking forward to it and it is a game we want to win. We want to get through to the third round - that is our aim.
“We can take heart from the result and performance we got from the last game at Peterborough. I see the FA Cup as a fantastic opportunity to give us a break from the league.
“It gives the players the chance to go and express themselves and try get us into the next round.”
Nathaniel Knight-Percival will miss the clash as he sits out his second of a three-game suspension, though captain Anthony O’Connor returns to the squad after missing Tuesday’s trip to Luton.
Hopkin added: “It is fantastic to have Anthony back. It was difficult on Tuesday for Kelvin Mellor to come back into the side immediately after being out for nine weeks. Anthony and Nathaniel have been giving us good protection at the back.
“When new players come in - and have to form new partnerships - it is always going to be difficult. To lose two of your defenders is tough, especially when we have had a settled backline over the last few weeks.
“The games coming up are a real test of our character. If we stick together, make sure we work hard and keep to the plan, then we can get away from where we are and kick on.”
Supporters can pay on the gate tomorrow, though admission prices will rise to:
Adults: £15
Seniors (60+): £12
Under-22s: £10
Under-18s: £5