Bradford City v Cheltenham Town - Fresh injury blow for Bantams as Reece Staunton sidelined

Bradford City have suffered another blow after centre-back Reece Staunton was ruled out for at least three months.
BAD BLOW: Bradford City's Reece Staunton is out for a lengthy spell injured. Picture: Tess Derry/PABAD BLOW: Bradford City's Reece Staunton is out for a lengthy spell injured. Picture: Tess Derry/PA
BAD BLOW: Bradford City's Reece Staunton is out for a lengthy spell injured. Picture: Tess Derry/PA

Scans have revealed the 18-year-old suffered a “high-grade hamstring tear” against Leyton Orient last week.

It only adds to the problems facing manager Stuart McCall ahead of tonight’s League Two visit of Cheltenham Town.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The Bantams have not won since beating non-league Tonbridge Angels 7-0 in the FA Cup first round. Their second-round loss at home to Oldham Athletic on Sunday was a fourth in five matches, and McCall said afterwards that “every part of our game was really poor.”

Bradford City boss Stuart McCall.  Picture: Bruce RollinsonBradford City boss Stuart McCall.  Picture: Bruce Rollinson
Bradford City boss Stuart McCall. Picture: Bruce Rollinson

Staunton has been one of the big plus points of a grim season at Valley Parade, making 14 appearances. His first goal in professional football earned City their only point since November 3, in the 2-2 draw with Exeter City.

This month he was rewarded for his form with a new contract but he will not play again for at least 12 weeks. Staunton travelled to London yesterday to see a specialist.

“We are all first and foremost disappointed to have lost Reece for so long, but of course gutted for the lad himself,” said McCall.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“He has made an impressive start to the season and, at just 18 years old, has fit into our side seamlessly, making a good transition into professional football. 

“We all wish him the very best with his recovery and will be with him every step of the way.”

Cheltenham are second in the League Two table, unbeaten in six matches, and in the FA Cup third round.

Last six games: Bradford City LLLDLW, Cheltenham Town DDWWWW

Referee: S Stockbridge (Tyne and Wear)

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Last time: Bradford City 1 Cheltenham Town 1, January 28, 2020, League Two.

Support The Yorkshire Post and become a subscriber today. Your subscription will help us to continue to bring quality news to the people of Yorkshire. In return, you’ll see fewer ads on site, get free access to our app and receive exclusive members-only offers. Click HERE to subscribe.

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.