Graham Alexander has explained the omission of loan defender Hayden Matthews from Bradford City's match-day squad for the 1-0 win at Notts County. The Bantams boss said it was a difficult selection call driven by the strength of his fully-fit squad.
Matthews was one of five players left out completely for Saturday's League One fixture, despite starting the midweek Carabao Cup victory at Leyton Orient. Alexander made 10 changes between the two matches.
'Didn’t feel good'
Speaking to reporters, the manager admitted the decisions were tough. "It didn’t feel good, I’ll be honest, it didn’t feel good when you had to let five lads know they weren’t going to be in the squad today," Alexander said. The defender, who joined on a season-long loan from Portsmouth this summer, has made three appearances in all competitions since his arrival.
"Difficult decisions today, leaving players out of the matchday squad who played on Tuesday," Alexander added. "But unfortunately that’s the numbers." Matthews faces competition from fellow centre-backs Josh Knight and Ibane Bowat in a squad that is currently free from injury.
Climbing the table
The selection headache comes amid a strong start to the campaign. George Pratt's 52nd-minute goal secured a third consecutive league win, lifting Bradford City to third in the table. They have 12 points from six games, just one point behind leaders Sheffield Wednesday.
Matthews, who has three years left on his Portsmouth contract, featured 16 times for the Blues after joining them in January 2025. His absence at Meadow Lane was a tactical one, not related to fitness or form. The Bantams will aim to extend their winning run and maintain their push near the top of the division.
