A return to fitness for Hanson..bad timing for the Alex?

Steve Davis expects Bradford City’s talented target man James Hanson to play some part at Valley Parade this weekend. Hanson, 26, has not played since the middle of September after aggravating his thigh, but has resumed training this week.

Davis has always been a keen admirer of the former Guiseley forward and says that Phil Parkinson may choose to risk him against his Crewe side.

Steve told the club’s official web-site: “Hanson has been out for a while with an injury but he has returned to training this week. It means he wouldn’t have done much and it will be up to them if they risk him or not.

“He is obviously a key player for them and we know what a handful he can be, but our defenders would have faced him before and know his strengths and weakness if he does play.

“He has been a handful for Premier League defenders in the past and is a strong competitor but if he is fit this weekend then it will be a good challenge for us. There are not many better than him the air.

“I suppose we won’t know if he is involved until we see the team-sheet but we have enough experience to cope if he is back.

He added: “It is always an enjoyable place to go and play your football and it will be our job to go there and frustrate them and their crowd by playing well enough. Getting that first goal would be a real advantage for us and it would be nice to give our supporters something to cheer about.”