Sinnott made over 250 appearances for the Bantams during three separate spells at Valley Parade and was short-listed for the manager's job when Stuart McCall was appointed last year.

After quitting Farsley Celtic to take over at Vale Park, Sinnott is now looking to lead the Valiants back to League One, but says Bradford are also also likely to be in the frame.

"You have to be detached from any emotion," he said. "In a weird sort of way, you maybe want to win the game even more – but that won't change how I feel about Bradford, their supporters or the happy times I had there.

"After the game I'll wish them all the best, until we meet them again," he added. "My belief is that if we finish above Bradford this year we won't be doing a hell of a lot wrong."

Team news: Bradford manager Stuart McCall is likely to revert to his strongest side after making five changes for the midweek Johnstone's Paint Trophy game at Leeds. Defender Matt Clarke has recovered from a calf strain, strikers Michael Boulding and Peter Thorne are likely to be recalled, while Lee Bullock and Paul Arnison are also pushing for a possible return.

Last six games: Port Vale WLLDWL, Bradford WLWWLL.

Last time: Port Vale 0 Bradford 1; January 6, 2007; League One.

Referee: PN Gibbs (Midlands)

Sky Bet odds: Port Vale 6-4, Bradford
17-10, Draw 5-2.