Bradford V Oxford Utd at Northern Commercials Stadium : Match Preview

28 December 2017 09:19
Knight-Percival pushing to start for Bradford

Nathaniel Knight-Percival is pushing to start Bradford's Sky Bet League One clash at home to Oxford.

The Bantams defender has been struggling with a hamstring injury but was an unused substitute against Peterborough on Boxing Day.

Jake Reeves could return to the starting line-up but the game is likely to come too soon for Jordan Gibson (groin).

Adam Chicksen (hamstring) is expected to return by the end of January while Colin Doyle (knee) and Alex Jones (ankle) are longer-term absentees.

Oxford boss Pep Clotet reacted to a 7-0 drubbing against Wigan by making wholesale changes for the Boxing Day trip to Gillingham and his side came away with a point.

The Spaniard made six changes to his line-up in total and started with a 4-4-2 formation for the first time, with Jon Obika brought in alongside Wes Thomas.

Gino van Kessel made his first league start since September against the Gills and will hope to keep his starting spot as he builds up his match fitness.

Agon Mehmeti is closing in on a return after three months out with a hamstring problem but the trip to Valley Parade may come too soon.

Source: PAR