Andrew Davies is raring to go after completing a four-match ban he still feels was harsh.

The Stoke defender has not played for City since picking up the second red card of his loan spell during the goalless draw at Swindon on October 29.

He was also sent off against Torquay three weeks previously, meaning he has been suspended for seven games since coming on board at Valley Parade.

Yet the class and experience of the Stockton-born centre back could prove vital for City in the remainder of his three-month loan.

And he is hoping that Bantams boss Phil Parkinson will pitch him straight back into action at the Priestfield Stadium tomorrow.

Davies, 26, said: “It’s been a long four weeks, not being able to help the lads out, so I’m looking forward to getting back.

“I spoke to both the players involved after the two dismissals and, like I’ve said a few times, neither of them were a red card.

“I’ve just got to learn and realise that refs really are looking for things at the minute.

“I’ve got to hold back a bit but at the same time I don’t want to change my game.

“I’m a defender who likes to be on the front foot but I do understand that I maybe have to hold back a bit.

“However, I can honestly put my hand on my heart and say I’ve not meant to hurt either of the players.

“I understand whatever decision the manager makes with me but I’m certainly revved up, ready to go and I want to get some points on the board at Gillingham tomorrow.”

Davies’ pedigree is unquestionable.

He progressed through the vaunted academy at Middlesbrough and, while his future remains uncertain, he has enjoyed his time at City.

Davies said: “I don’t know what the situation is at Stoke, other than the fact I’m out of contract in the summer.

“I’ve had a few injuries over the last couple of years of my career and I just want to play football.

“I think that’s what people have questioned – my fitness.

“Nobody has ever questioned my ability.

“They have just said ‘okay prove you’re fit’, and that’s what I’m here to do.

“I’m here until just after January and then we will sit down and decide what the manager wants to do.

“I’ve enjoyed it here, even though I’ve only played a few games.

“The fans have been very good to me too, so we will see what happens.”

Despite being unavailable for the bulk of his loan spell thus far, Davies says he has become fully immersed within the squad and is keen to help the younger players at the club.

“I’ve been around the place and tried to help the lads as much as I can,” he explained.

“There are some fantastic young players here and I want to help them.

“Gareth Southgate and Jonathan Woodgate did that with me when I was a young lad at Middlesbrough.

“There were a lot of great players there and Colin Cooper was another one who I played with.

“The lads thought he was fantastic when he was here, so for me to be able to pass on my experience to the young lads would be great.”