Bantams boss Graham Alexander keen to consult senior players

City may have dropped three places to 16th since they last played but remain in the cluster of clubs still eyeing a possible play-off spot.

Five points separate them from seventh-placed Walsall, who have played a game more, going into the home clash with League Two top scorers Notts County.

There is plenty of experience in the dressing room to keep spirits on the level for a crucial two months.

And Alexander has revealed that he is happy to run ideas past the more senior members on the City roster.

“We talk to the players often about decisions we want to make as a squad,” he said.

“I’ll pull three or four players together and discuss it with them first. We want them to buy into it.

“I make decisions, it’s my responsibility but I want them to be part of the process. We want them to have an environment where they feel they can win with.

“It’s not just having a comfortable life but does this help us win? We think it could, so what do you think?

“Then we’ll discuss it but ultimately I’ll make the decisions. But I want them to be part of it.”

Alexander played until he was 40 and was one of those older heads that would be consulted by his manager. He is keen to share that authority from the Valley Parade hot-seat.

“I know in the heat of the battle, the senior players need to know they have my responsibility to go on and do things and speak to the players. I trust them to do it.

“That’s not just match days but I have to do it day in, day out, week in, week out, for them to build up the knowledge that I’m expecting them to do that.

“I was entrusted like that as a player myself. I felt it was a really good, rewarding responsibility to have and I want certain players to have that as well.”

Alexander feels that joint responsibility can help to strengthen the team ethic he is trying to instil within the group.

He added: “Management is a tough job and I can’t do it on my own. I need my staff and senior players, captain and vice-captain – we all have to help each other.

“I’m here to help them on a day-to-day basis. But I’m not naïve enough to think that I don’t need them from time-to-time as well to help create a winning team.

“I let them know they are part of the process. I value their opinions, professionalism and experience.

“I believe they are as motivated as me to create a winning team, so let’s work together.”

Tyler Smith made only his second City start for 10 games last week (Image: Thomas Gadd)

Alexander will have Andy Cook back to lead the line against the Magpies after missing the Wycombe EFL Trophy semi-final through suspension.

Tyler Smith took Cook’s place last week for only his second start in 10 games but missed a couple of big chances on a night of frustration.

Alexander has some words of encouragement for the former Hull man – and others currently not in the side who are likely to be called upon in a busy finish to the campaign.

“Whenever I pick a team, I know I’m leaving good players out of it.

“I don’t say I’ve got 11 good players and the others are poor. You do feel like you’re rejecting them every time you name the team.

“But hopefully they’ll see we’ve had more than 11 players playing in our wins. It’s always been a group ethic.

“All I want is that positivity and respect for their team-mates.

“Tyler has done a great job for us when he was in the team.

“(But) I thought he was part of the team just slowing up. As I did with Cooky recently, I just wanted to give him a reset and a refresh.

“I’m sure he’ll have his opportunities again and I’ll expect him to take them because he’s a good player.”