Bradford City send bullish message to Blackburn Rovers

Bradford City boss, Graham Alexander. <i>(Image: PA)</i>
Bradford City boss, Graham Alexander. (Image: PA)
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Bradford City are hoping to shock Blackburn Rovers and secure a cup upset when they travel to Ewood Park on Tuesday night.

Valerien Ismael's side return to Lancashire after a 1-0 defeat to West Brom at the weekend. Rovers will want to get themselves into round two for the fourth successive year and treat their home fans with a win.

They will be heavy favourites against the newly-promoted League One Bantams. They've started their league campaign with four points, drawing 0-0 at Northampton Town on Saturday.

Manager Graham Alexander believes that, having beaten Championship rivals Middlesbrough in pre-season, his team can compete with Rovers and cause an upset.

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"It will be a tough game," he told the club.

"We played Middlesbrough a few weeks ago in pre-season and we saw how hard we had to work in that game to win it.

"We know it's pre-season but it was a very good performance from us. We had to work exceptionally hard to do that and I don't see Tuesday being anything different.

"Our approach will be the same, we always look to win the game of football. We want to be confident about who we are, we have a duty to show the fans that we care.

"All those things will be there from us. Nothing guarantees us a result so we will go there and give our best."

Despite that, Alexander is under no illusions that Rovers are favourites and will be stern opposition. Blackburn beat the same opponents three years ago in the second round at Valley Parade.

"We have to respect ourselves more than any opponent," he continued.

"It's about our club, our badge, our colours. They all come to more than what an opponent can bring to the game.

"We all know a Championship club will be a tough game but the players are looking forward to it. They see every challenge and relish what's in front of them. We won't back down."

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