Burton Albion v Bradford City: Top-six conundrum puzzles Bantams boss Phil Parkinson

The Bantams remain in sight of the play-off spots thanks to last weekend’s last-gasp victory over Fleetwood Town, Steven Davies’s stoppage-time winner meaning just three points separate the West Yorkshire club from the top six.

Parkinson’s men also have at least one game in hand on the sides above them in the table. It is a promising position, though one that has so far been undermined by a disappointing run of results against the top teams.

In fact, of 11 games against the top 10 so far this season, City have won just one – against Port Vale.

Today brings a trip to leaders Burton Albion, while next week Bradford are on the road again to face play-off hopefuls Peterborough United.

Parkinson said: “We have to find a way to get those results. We do have to beat one of those top teams and to do that we have to find the right formula that gives us the best chance.

“Confidence is not a problem. The way we beat Fleetwood last week gave the lads a big lift.”

City’s preparations have been boosted this week by being able to train at the headquarters of the West Riding FA.

Parkinson added: “After all the problems (at the club’s Apperley Bridge training ground) we have had because of the floods, the lads really appreciated the chance to play on a good surface.

“It was timely, especially ahead of taking on a very good Burton team.

“This is a big game for us. Burton have probably been under-estimated by some this season, but not us.

“They are up there for a reason. Nigel Clough has sensibly not changed much since taking 
over and Burton look a good team.”