Bradford City‘s injury crisis seems to be on the downturn as three key players are closing in on a return to full fitness.
The Bantams have had tough luck in regard to injuries so far this season, especially in defence and to a lesser extent in midfield. It saw Graham Alexander dip into the free agent market too, with ex-Sunderland man Corry Evans and former Carlisle United defender Paul Huntington arriving at Valley Parade.
Trio Back In Training
Speaking ahead of City’s FA Cup first-round clash against National League side Aldershot Town, Alexander delivered the news that three of their regular players are nearly ready to play. (Quotes via Yorkshire Post):
“Antoni Sarcevic, Aden Baldwin and Clarke Oduor have been out on the grass, but only with the medical team. It’s a step forward, I think. Alex Pattison will be on the grass later in the week.”
All three have had separate issues, with Odour affected by bruising on his shin. Baldwin joined from Notts County this summer but only played five games before being forced off against Grimsby Town. He was initially supposed to return by this stage of the season but suffered a setback whilst out of action.
Sarcevic had initially played through discomfort in his knee against MK Dons and Salford City but eventually was pulled to have scans which ruled him out for months.
Big Boost For City
All three have played big roles so far in the club’s fortunes this season, with former Stockport County man Sarcevic beginning as a regular face in the midfield. Baldwin was one of the three centre-backs Alexander opted to use on the opening day whilst Odour has been a regular rotation option.
City will hope to bounce back from their disappointing Yorkshire Derby loss to Doncaster Rovers and continue a play-off push when league action returns against Fleetwood Town.
Writer’s View
This is massive news for Bradford City and needed to relieve some of the workload put on the players who have been fit throughout this spell. Sarcevic was a crucial player in City’s early results and had looked worse off without him in the games after his injury. Baldwin and Odour may find themselves on the bench upon their return, with Barnsley‘s Jack Shepherd and Bobby Pointon both delivering on the pitch in their absences.
1st Class Honours in Multimedia Journalism at Salford University. Writing mainly about League Two.
