Bradford City and Wigan Athletic will face off this afternoon as both sides aim to gain essential points ahead of an essential part of the season.
The Bantams, managed by Graham Alexander, picked up their second win in a row and first away win in over two months against Port Vale on Wednesday.
In striking contrast, however, Wigan were defeated 3-0 by Plymouth Argyle in their last outgoing with Tom Cleverley’s side now looking towards a play-off charge whilst Gary Caldwell’s outfit sit just above the relegation zone in 20th place.
With City and Athletic coming into the game with contrasting form, it appears that Bradford could be considered slight favourites.
However, with Alexander’s side tenth in the League One away form table, the clash is set-up to be arguably very interesting.
Now, Graham Alexander has commented on both Bobby Pointon and Ethan Wheatley ahead of the clash.
Speaking on Pointon, the Scotsman stated: “We let him have Monday off because of what was happening.
“We spoke on Tuesday after training, he said he wanted to play. He scored the goal, what a special moment for him and his family given the circumstances.”
Bobby Pointon scored the opening goal at Port Vale on Wednesday, with it later emerging that he had promised his nan that he would score in the game.
Commenting on Wheatley, Alexander explained: “How Ethan performed over the last three games, we look at how the team has performed.
“It would have been three wins from three if we had defended crosses better at Reading. We want every player to improve, but it is about the team.
“All of the forward line pressed, and all had chances to score, including the substitutes on Wednesday. Playing for the team is why we are where we are. Ethan has bought into what we are doing.”
Wheatley has continued to receive support from Graham Alexander with it looking likely that he will start at Wigan following an impressive off-the-ball display against Vale in mid-week.
