TYLER Smith was not included at Mansfield last night because he had just become a dad.
The striker’s absence from the squad for the Bristol Street Motors Trophy game raised suggestions that he was down the City pecking order.
But Graham Alexander revealed that Smith was given the time off with the club’s blessing after his wife gave birth.
The Bantams boss said: “We gave him a couple of days to spend time with his wife and new baby. He’s back in with us today and ready for selection.
“He texted me early on Monday saying his wife had given birth during the middle of the night.
“I don’t know how long the birth took but they were still in hospital when he spoke to me.
“He didn’t train with us Monday, so I just thought to give him the extra day.
“It’s a special time for any parent with the birth of your first child.
“But he’s back training with us with a spring in his step today because he’s obviously had a special week for himself.”
Jamie Walker was also not involved against the Stags. He picked up a knock in the Walsall defeat and City are monitoring him.
Alexander added: “It was in a melee in the middle of the box but he finished the game and didn’t feel anything until the day after.”
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