JAMIE Proctor hopes to issue a timely reminder to City boss Phil Parkinson this afternoon.

Proctor is one of several players currently on the fringes looking to press their claims in a strong reserve line-up.

Billy Clarke's return to fitness means the former Fleetwood striker has not even made the bench for the last two games.

So he has the chance to make a point in today's second-string clash with Port Vale that is being played at the West Riding County FA headquarters in Woodlesford.

Parkinson admits Proctor, who has started three times since his arrival in the Devante Cole deal last month, has been unlucky.

"Proc has been unfortunate because he scored against Port Vale on his debut and gave a terrific performance," said the Bantams boss.

"He then had to miss the Fleetwood game and when he did, (James) Hanson and (Steve) Davies both scored.

"We've gone to Burton, which wasn't a great team performance, and then we've beaten Peterborough where Hanson and Davies scored again.

"It's difficult but there's a logical explanation (why Proctor hasn't been involved).

"But Proc is the type of lad who can come from not even being on the bench to starting the next game. It's an opportunity to make a statement as well as the fitness aspect."

Josh Morris and Chris Routis have also been sidelined recently and will take part as Parkinson looks to get his squad up to speed for the next busy spell.

"We're going into another period of midweek games again and players who have been waiting for a chance will need some minutes under their belt," he said.

"Like with Billy Knott on Saturday, we've got to make sure that anybody who comes into the team is ready."