Sunderland have refused to let Bradford City extend defender Andy Melville's loan to a second month.

The Welsh international has impressed in his six matches for City but Peter Reid wants him back to bolster his promotion chasing Sunderland squad.

Melville should have completed his loan this weekend but as he is suspended and cannot play for City against Birmingham, he has returned to the Stadium of Light.

Jewell said: "Peter Reid told me he had one or two suspensions coming up and he needs Andy back with them.

"I am disappointed because he has done very well for us and I told Peter Reid he must have some good centre backs if Andy cannot get into their side.

"He agreed with me, but I suppose they have got to have plenty of cover if they are going for one of the automatic promotion places."

Melville was signed by City in time to play at Middlesbrough on February 14, when they had three central defenders out of action - Eddie Youds was suspended and Darren Moore and John Dreyer were injured.

At that time there were reports suggesting that Sunderland might be prepared to sell him for around £500,000, but Jewell said: "It was always going to be a short term deal. I don't think Andy came here with a view to a permanent signing."

Melville's departure leaves Jewell with just two fit centre backs, Youds and Andy O'Brien. Moore and Dreyer are still sidelined

Youds and O'Brien will be paired together against Birmingham on Saturday and City will be hoping for no further injury setbacks.

O'Brien impressed playing for the Football League Under-21 side in their 0-0 draw against the Italian Serie B at Charlton last night.

Rain caused the reserve match against Carlisle at Valley Parade to be called off.

City had hoped that striker John McGinlay would test his fitness after being out of action for two weeks with Achilles tendon trouble.

They also planned to give striker Edinho a game.

Jewell said: "It was very disappointing but the pitch wasn't playable - it just holds water at the moment."

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