Influential winger Peter Beagrie has played a big part in Bradford City's recent revival but he believes the defence holds the key to continued success.

"We have never played with the same back four all season," he observes.

"A back four is a unit and if there are different individuals it is difficult to get an understanding.

"It was a blow to lose Stephen Wright at right back because he was in great form.

"He is a tremendous footballer because he links defence with attack, but it was a great bonus when Lee Todd came in and did so well against Port Vale in midweek.

"He is a similar player to Stephen Wright. I have watched him in training and, although he favours his left foot, he is very good with his right.

"When he receives it he always looks to have time on the ball, and that's important because nowadays full backs often find themselves as the spare man and spend more time on the ball than anyone else."

Beagrie is aware that City face stiff competition for the promotion place they crave and he sees today's opponents Sunderland as the side who will set the standards for others.

Cruelly beaten in last season's play-off final against Charlton when they lost a penalty shoot-out after a memorable 4-4 draw with Charlton at Wembley, Peter Reid's men have shown no signs of a hangover as they have quickly established themselves as promotion front-runners.

Beagrie said: "I don't think they have sold anyone and, although they have lost a prime midfield player with injury in Lee Clark, they have strength in depth.

"Lee is an exceptional player, but they have got Alex Rae to come in and play in a similar way.

"Sunderland's home record at the Sta-dium of Light is formidable and the opposition are often put under heavy pressure.

"The key thing is to stand firm and make the most of the spells in the game when you are on top against a side like Sunderland."

Beagrie is pleased with his own form this campaign, adding: "This season more than last the crosses I am putting in are paying dividends.

"We have got strikers at the club who are hungry for goals and they are always capable of getting in front of defenders in the box, while defender Darren Moore believes he can score when the ball comes in from set-pieces."

Beagrie, who ended a four year run without a goal when he netted a penalty in the 2-1 opening game of the season defeat by Stockport at Valley Parade, is pleased to have four goals to his name already.

"I am also pleased I have scored my share of goals. I have never been a prolific scorer, but I have got my share in the past..

"We have a mixture of youth and experience, including Stuart McCall and myself who have played at top level, but we both still have the right attitude and will to win.

"Gordon Watson is also a Premier-ship player.

"His movement is fantastic and we have got a situation where we have got strikers who can play for each other. If anyone is injured it doesn't affect the balance of the side.

"There is also competition for places, and that's what you need if you are aiming for the top."

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