Manager Paul Jewell is hoping that goalkeeper Gary Walsh will be fit to return to Bradford City's side to face Arsenal in their next match at Valley Parade on February 5.

Jewell would like Walsh to replace Matt Clarke who will be out of action for six to eight weeks after damaging his medial ligaments in Saturday's 3-2 win over Watford.

Walsh lost his place to Clarke at the beginning of November when he went down with flu and he has been out of action since later that month when he had to undergo a cartilage operation.

Since then Clarke has established himself in the team with some outstanding displays and it was a cruel blow when he was injured on Saturday.

Jewell said: "Fortunately, Matt does not require an operation. His knee will be in a brace.

"It is a sickening blow for him and for us, but that is what football is like. He has done really well since he got his chance in the team.

"I am hoping that Gary Walsh will be fit to take over for the Arsenal match, but we don't want to rush him and set him back.

"Gary made progress and then hit a plateau, but he has started to improve again."

Jewell is also hoping to extend Aidan Davison's loan spell from Sheffield Uni-ted for a third month.

The Northern Ireland international joined City on loan when Walsh has his knee operation and he came on as substitute for Clarke on Saturday.

His second month's loan ends next week and Jewell said: "I am hoping we can extend it."

It is Davison's second spell with City. He joined them from Bolton on a free transfer in March 1997.

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