Bradford City's FA Cup hopes have been hit by the news that David Wetherall will miss their potentially tricky tie early next year.

The Bantams will travel to face the winners of the third round replay between Gillingham and Walsall, which is due to take place on fourth round day - Saturday January 8.

City will face the winners the following Tuesday or Wednesday, but Wetherall has been forced out of the action after picking up his fifth booking of the season in the goalless draw with Everton.

That means he has incurred a one-match ban, but providing the cup tie goes ahead on the scheduled day, Wetherall will be able to maintain his ever-present record in the Premiership.

The inspirational defender has been in superb form this term, and has struck up a great understanding with Andy O'Brien at the heart of the defence.

Wetherall has picked up bookings against Sheffield Wednesday, Arsenal, Liverpool and Barnsley since becoming City's record signing when he moved from Leeds for £1.4 million during the summer.

Meanwhile, chairman Geoff-rey Richmond believes City's league clash with Chelsea on Saturday, January 8 will be the third consecutive sell-out at Valley Parade.

The Bantams chief said: "We have around 500 tickets left for the game, which is quite healthy considering the game takes place a week on Saturday.

"I also believe some of our supporters are confused as to when the game is actually taking place. The date was moved twice in quick succession.

"And with the programme for the Everton match being printed due to the Christmas holidays before the final date was set, the confusion has continued.

"We have also spoken to Chelsea and, with the game being on a Saturday, they are confident of selling out their full allocation."

Tickets are priced at £22 (concessions £15) and are available from the ticket office at Valley Parade.

City's last two home games against Newcastle and Everton have both been 18,276 sell-outs.

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