Inspirational defender Eddie Youds believes Paul Jewell has instilled confidence in Bradford City since he took over as manager and hopes he gets the job on a permanent basis.

Jewell has been in charge of the Bantams, first as caretaker boss and now until the end of the season at least, since Chris Kamara was sacked in early January.

Before today's trip to Tranmere, City had taken just 16 points from Jewell's 13 games in charge but Youds remains adamant that he should be named manager after the season ends in May.

He said: "It was strange because when Chris Kamara left people expected the club to be in turmoil and yet Paul came in and steadied the ship.

"He told everyone what he wanted from them and he has tremendous respect among the lads. It has proved how he has changed things and the team plays with more inventiveness as we try to win more games now.

"He has had 13 games but we should have won ten of those as we have played with a more adventurous style."

This positive play has been evident away from home in recent weeks where, despite the results, City have turned in several strong performances.

Since Jewell took over, the Bantams have won only once in seven games on their travels but that tells only half the story.

Two of their best performances of the season have been away from Valley Parade in recent weeks and yet stoppage time goals at both Wolves and West Brom left Jewell's side with just one point.

The point is not lost on Youds. He said: "When we go away his main objective is to get three points. There is none of this 'shut up shop' type attitude. That instils confidence in the players. We should be beating these teams and he is a pleasure to play under.

"We have a good team spirit and it is evident on the pitch that we are all good mates. That is vital as it gives you a lift when things aren't going that well.

"It is the best dressing room I have been involved in and Paul Jewell has had a lot to do with that. He likes everyone to be happy in their work. He wants them to be relaxed and play positive football."

Youds was returning to his native Merseyside today as clear favourite for the club's Player of the Year award after battling back from a career-threatening injury which ruled him out for 14 months.

He has missed just one game, through suspension, and has put in some inspirational performances at the back for the Bantams.

"Fitness-wise, I have to be pleased with the season and playing-wise it has also been good. Apart from the cup games we have done OK.

"I would imagine if someone had said before the season that after 38 games I would have played in all but one and that we would be lying in mid-table, then we would have settled for that. People have expected a lot from us because of the start and it is a difficult league to play in."

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