Bradford City v Shrewsbury: Jackson promises show to attract fans and sway board

The Bantams’ home game with Shrewsbury Town is the only Football League fixture that will kick-off in direct competition with the international against Wales.

City had wanted to move the kick-off but the Shrews refused unless the Valley Parade club agreed to pay for an overnight stay. Today’s game means the crowd at Bradford is likely to be hit as some fans opt to stay at home and watch England on television.

However, for those who opt for Valley Parade come 3.0pm, Jackson is vowing to reward such dedication with a positive display.

He said: “There will be a temptation for some to stay at home, I understand that. But, personally, I would always prefer a live game.

“For those who are coming to the Bradford City game, we want to put on a show for them. I was disappointed by our performance in last week’s draw against Northampton Town.

“For all the hype that had been created by back-to-back wins (against Rotherham and Morecambe), we didn’t really perform and I understand our fans will have left the ground disappointed. We don’t want a repeat of that this weekend and I am sure the lads will do their bit.”

City will be forced into at least one change today with Jon Worthington suspended following his sending off in the 1-1 draw against Northampton. Tom Adeyemi is expected to come into midfield, while Jackson also seems set to name two teenagers – Darren Stephenson and Dominic Rowe – on the bench.

The Bradford interim manager explained: “I am someone who believes in giving youngsters a chance. Certainly, moving forward in the long-term, if I am still here then I will look to put the emphasis on youth.

“Giving youth a chance was something I had a reputation for at Huddersfield and I have not changed my thinking.”

Shrewsbury’s visit to Valley Parade will be Jackson’s fifth game in temporary charge of the Bantams, who are determined to take their time before naming a permanent successor to Peter Taylor.

It is understood the City board have whittled down the applications that flooded in following Taylor’s departure to a shortlist of six names, two of whom have already been interviewed.

Former Hibernian chief John Hughes is believed to be one of those to have already spoken to Bradford, who have also been linked with possible moves for Bury manager Alan Knill and John Still of Dagenham & Redbridge.

Jackson is also understood to be on the shortlist. He said: “I feel things have been going well. I am going about the job how I think it should be done. It is a tremendous honour to manage Bradford City and I want to stay in charge.”

Lenny Pidgeley is back available after a dead leg but Kevin Ellison is out with a thigh injury.

Last six games: Bradford City LLWLWWD, Shrewsbury Town DLWDLD.

Last time: Bradford City 1 Shrewsbury Town 3; December 28, 2009; League Two.

Referee: P Quinn (Cleveland).