DANNY Devine’s stop-start City career could be set to get going again.
Gary Bowyer has indicated that the local lad is in his thoughts after a season dogged by injury.
Devine has not featured since the FA Cup first-round replay with Aldershot at Valley Parade in November – and his appearance from the bench in the original tie had been his first for 11 months.
David Hopkin gave him that opportunity before injury once more stopped the midfielder in his tracks.
But now the 21-year-old is back in the squad under Bowyer, who is once more looking for him to take the chance.
The Bantams boss said: “He was out for about four or five months out before playing his first 60 minutes (in a practice game) last week.
“He’s recovered from that well. Touch wood, there’s no recurrence.
“He’s another one we hope will have a solid week again and certainly comes into contention.
“I think it’s wonderful to see local boys come through. I gave about four or five young lads their debuts and Rowan Roache is now on loan at Derby from Blackpool.
“It’s vitally important that you are bringing homegrown players through. The supporters love to recognise their home players and hopefully Danny can be involved this weekend.”
Devine, a former St Bede’s pupil, was thrust into the first team at the start of Stuart McCall’s second spell in charge. He started 13 games in the 2016-2017 campaign – but only six since and last featured at right back for Hopkin.
City’s defence will have to be on their game dealing with a free-scoring Doncaster. Striker John Marquis has netted 23 goals this season, earning his place in the three-man shortlist for League One player of the year.
But Bowyer warned it is not just about stopping him.
He said: “They’ve got a lot of good players and we can’t just concentrate on him.
“I’m sure Marquis will tell you himself that it’s those others who provide him with the opportunities.
“I went with Andy Todd to watch Doncaster last week against Bristol Rovers and they played very well.
“They are looking to get in the play-off themselves and we know it’s going to be a good challenge.
“But we’ve got to build on the positives from the Charlton game and take that into the weekend. It’s been good to have a full week’s training.”
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