Bradford City v Crewe: Parkinson guards against backlash after Crewe Cup exit

The third tier is shaping up into a fascinating contest with just one point separating the top four.

Another tightly bunched pack of clubs are chasing that leading quartet, suggesting that the race for promotion is going to go down to the wire.

“League One is very, very even,” said the City manager. “Last year, once things had settled down, Bristol City were miles ahead. The spending money they had made that happen.

“This year, Wigan and Sheffield United have spent a lot more than anyone else but, really, I see this division as a very level playing field. Getting that consistency and a constant work ethic can make all the difference.”

Today, Bradford host a Crewe Alexandra side still smarting from last week’s FA Cup first round exit at home to non-League Eastleigh.

Parkinson was at Gresty Road due to City not being in action until the following day in their own tie against Aldershot Town, which ended in a draw.

He said: “I would expect some sort of reaction from Crewe. We have been preparing in training for that. We know Crewe have some talented players.

“Even last week, you could see that. We are missing key players so we need the fans to come and get right behind the team.”

Crewe may be rock bottom of League One but they have pulled off some decent results, most recently when beating Sheffield United on home soil a fortnight ago.

Parkinson is well aware the threat that Alexandra will pose today at Valley Parade but is backing his side to rise to the challenge.

“We are on a very good run and have players coming back but we want to get better,” he said.