DAVID Hopkin is appealing for free agents to use City as a short-term shop window.

The City head coach is actively pursuing several targets to bolster a squad that remains stretched.

George Miller, Ryan McGowan and Sean Scannell are all back in contention to face leaders Portsmouth on Saturday. Adam Chicksen could also return to the squad after his injury lay-off.

But Hopkin is keen to inject some experience from the free agent market and is in talks with several players.

He is trying to convince them that a regular run of games for the struggling Bantams, if only up to the mid-season transfer window, can still potentially attract a bigger move.

Hopkin said: “I’ve been trying hard and have spoken to three or four players’ agents, with regard to getting reinforcements in.

“It’s always difficult this time of the year, especially when the players you are speaking to are in training with clubs just now.

“Most of those are Championship level and players always want to stay as high as they can. They’re obviously hoping to get something there.

“Over the next couple of days, I’m hoping to get some answers back to see where we are and who fancies coming in and playing.

“I always say to players that you have to be playing football.”

Hopkin is currently running the rule over former Birmingham and Blackburn utility man Paul Caddis, who is training with City this week. He has been without a club since cancelling his contract at Ewood Park in August.

Owners Stefan Rupp and Edin Rahic have given Hopkin the green light to chase quick-fix recruits. The Scot insists the problem is persuading players to drop down below the level they have usually played – even if they are currently unattached.

He added: “I spoke to Edin and Stefan and they are all for it if anybody comes available in positions that we need to strengthen. It’s just getting the deals done.

“I don’t think it’s a hard sell (joining a team at the bottom) but sometimes it’s a status thing with players. They don’t want to be playing in League One, no matter what club you are.

“They want to play Championship football but if they come and play for us, even if it’s only to January, then you’re giving yourself a platform for those clubs to watch you.

“If you’re playing regularly for the next nine or ten weeks, teams can come and see you and will know that you’re match fit. So, it not only works for us but also for the player.

“These are options that I’ve been trying to sell to them.”

Chicksen is back in training and in contention for his first action since the change of boss. He suffered a hairline fracture in his leg in Michael Collins’ final game at Fleetwood.

Hopkin said: “Hopefully we’ll get a few days in him before Saturday and he can be included in the matchday squad this week.

“He looks after himself and the medical team says his fitness issue shouldn’t be a problem, even though he’s been out for seven or eight weeks.”

Connor Wood has deputised in his absence and Hopkin has been pleased with the youngster. But he wants more options back so that the rookies in the side can have a breather.

“Connor’s a young boy who’s just come from playing under-23s football and going straight in to League One is tough.

“Lewis O’Brien is the same but we need players now who can help if we’re going to get back into playing Saturday, Tuesday which will happen over the coming weeks.”

Winger Scannell had an injection in his back on Monday and City will monitor his progress ahead of the weekend.