City have been branded an "absolute disgrace" after pulling out of today's friendly with Telford at the 11th hour.

The Bantams contacted the Conference side yesterday afternoon to say they were unable to raise a side through injuries and a virus.

But Telford's official website claimed the real reason was that some players refused to play while their pay dispute continued - suggestions strongly denied by City.

Manager Nicky Law said: "If we went there and got any more injuries we wouldn't be able to field teams for Chesterfield and Hartlepool next week. Those matches are far more important."

Telford boss Jake King reacted angrily to the late cancellation, which came just 24 hours after original opponents Mansfield had cried off for the same reasons.

King blasted: "I could expect it if it was amateurs we were dealing with but these are two so-called professional clubs. The fans are going to miss out - it's an absolute disgrace."

David Wetherall, City's union rep, said: "I'm sure that after what's been going on at the club this summer, some will think there is more to it. But that is not the case.

"The gaffer obviously took into account the small size of the squad and number of little niggles. We need to get some games in but there is always the risk of bumps and niggles turning into bigger injuries."