HOME discomfort is not just restricted to Valley Parade.

City's form on their own patch continues to be a big issue – and they are not alone.

Charlton, currently their immediate rivals for the last League One play-off spot, are finding life equally awkward on home soil.

Karl Robinson's side have won only three of the last nine league outings at the Valley – and kept only one clean sheet in the process.

Ten days ago, they conceded twice at the death to lose 3-2 to Oxford, before being pegged back by another stoppage-time equaliser at Doncaster on Saturday.

At almost the same time Bury were breaking City hearts, Matty Blair converted a deflected equaliser for Doncaster against the Addicks.

But Robinson maintains his inconsistent side are still in a position of strength going into tonight's clash with the Bantams.

He said: "We're two points outside the play-offs with two games in hand. If you offered that to most teams, they would take it right now.

"We're miles ahead of where we were last year but because of the perfections we're trying to achieve – we've got to be more ruthless."

On-loan Arsenal striker Stephy Mavididi is a major absentee after pulling his hamstring against Oxford.

Having scored twice in his first month with the club, he now faces another seven weeks out of action.

Centre half Jason Pearce has a chance of being on the bench after his knee injury but Charlton are likely to stick with the same side left frustrated at the Keepmoat.

Defender Chris Solly said: "Bradford are in and around us so it's a good game to have – the sooner the better.

"Bradford are up there so that's the sort of game you want. After a disappointing result like that (on Saturday), to follow it up with a big game is the perfect scenario.

"Once our squad is fully fit, we're very strong – up there with the best in the league."