David Wetherall today saluted the unsung heroes of City's First Division survival - the fans.

Wetherall believes the supporters played just as big a part in keeping the club afloat as the board or players.

And he praised the Supporters' Trust for ploughing money into City's coffers during the continued uncertainty of the season.

Skipper Wetherall said: "Sometimes in some quarters players are seen as not appreciating the level of the support they have had. It is certainly not the case here.

"We are extremely grateful for the help given by the fans, particularly those like the Supporters' Trust who have taken an active interest in doing their bit for the club.

"That kind of backing has helped persuade Gordon Gibb to put his money in and buy the stadium. If everybody had been apathetic and there had been a distinct lack of support around the place, then I'm sure he would have thought twice about committing that amount of capital to it."

The players recently joined up with the Supporters Trust. Chairman Chris Hawkridge said: "Bradford City are a shining example of what can be achieved when all parties work together."

Despite finishing the season with four defeats, there is guarded optimism about the 2003-2004 centenary campaign.

So far 6,500 season-tickets have been sold.