Stuart McCall today pledged to fight his way out of City’s current rut but admitted: I’m not blind to the consequences if I don’t.

The Valley Parade chief has challenged his faltering side to win at least three of the next four games, starting at Lincoln this afternoon.

McCall is also well aware that the spotlight is on him – and he will carry the can if the Bantams continue to slide. But he has no intention of slinking away.

In a candid interview, he underlined his backing for the players and stressed his determination to see the job through.

McCall revealed: “If I was a quitter I would have gone in the summer. I’m going to fight because I still believe there’s enough in that dressing room.

“I’ve got to lead from the front and I’m not frightened of doing that.

“I don’t feel under any more pressure than I put on myself already. I know what’s needed.

“That’s the big significance of these next four games because I know there are opportunities for us.

“If we can take them and maximise the points we can get, then it could look a lot healthier. Likewise it might look bad and things might need to be done – I’m not blind to that fact.

“But I’m not here to feel sorry for myself whatever. It’s not about me.

“I’ll keep doing what I’ve always done from day one, working as hard and as diligently as I can to try to get the best out of the players.”

McCall’s confidence in the squad has not dipped despite losing five of the last seven games – and he dismisses any suggestions of “losing the dressing room”.

He said: “I’ve been at clubs where you hear that players aren’t playing for the manager. There’s been no indication whatsoever that’s been the case here. Morale is obviously not as it would be if we were winning games but the spirit and belief is still there.

“I spoke to Mark (Lawn) and Julian (Rhodes) about the way things have gone and I know we need to pick up results quickly.

“I didn’t sleep the other night after the Bury game and my guts were churning. I know at the moment we’re not getting what we deserve. That goes for all of us – supporters, the board and the players.

“Ultimately it’s down to me to get results and I’ve not been getting those results. That’s what I’m working hard to do.”