Blackpool v Bradford City: Return to fitness of Steven Davies and James Hanson lifts Bantams

MANAGER Phil Parkinson believes Bradford City are getting Steven Davies back to form at just the right time.
Bradford City's Steven Davies. 
Picture: Jonathan GawthorpeBradford City's Steven Davies. 
Picture: Jonathan Gawthorpe
Bradford City's Steven Davies. Picture: Jonathan Gawthorpe

The Bantams travel to Blackpool looking to further strengthen their push for the play-offs after taking seven points from their last three outings.

Around 3,000 City fans are expected to head to the seaside for a fixture that could see Davies pitted against a club where he spent two seasons.

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The Liverpudlian is hoping to start after netting three times in his four appearances from the bench.

Parkinson said: “Steven is chomping at the bit to play. That is great for me, especially as he has done well coming off the bench lately.

“He was unfortunate to suffer an injury on the first day of pre-season.

“He then got back up to speed and was playing really well when the injury came along.

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“Rotten luck for anyone, I’d say. But he is coming good now at just the right time.

“We are approaching the business end of the season and getting players like Steven back to their best and others coming into form is great.”

James Hanson’s involvement in training was stepped up during the week after he had initially been told to avoid contact after being forced off during last weekend’s 2-2 draw with Rochdale with a head injury.

He should be available to start, though Paul Anderson is unlikely to be risked despite impressing in training now that the wideman has recovered from his broken leg.

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Parkinson added: “Getting players like Paul back will be a big lift for us at an important time.”

Last six games: Blackpool DDWLDL, Bradford City LWLWWD.

Referee: M Bull (Essex).

Last time: Blackpool 4 Bradford City 1; October 28, 2006; League One.

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