Our League One lowdown continues as we take a look at Sunderland’s 2018-19 opposition.
Next up, we put Bradford City under the microscope…
2017-18: THE STORY
An impressive start to the season saw Bradford lose just two of their opening 12 games, and promotion was the word on everyone’s lips following a 2-1 win at Wigan Athletic in November. At that time, and with 18 games played, the Bantams were five points clear of Oxford United in seventh and just three behind the top two, but the festive period ushered in the beginning of the end. From December 23, they picked up just eight points from their next 14 games and their promotion hopes turned to dust.
STADIUM: VALLEY PARADE
Opened in 1886, Valley Parade has been Bradford’s home throughout their 115-year history. The 25,136 capacity makes it the fourth largest stadium in Sky Bet League One next season, and it’s a familiar one to Sunderland fans who visited in July 2017 during pre-season. Named the Northern Commercials Stadium for sponsorship purposes, Valley Parade houses away fans in the TL Dallas Stand which boasts a capacity of 1,840.
MANAGER: VACANT
After leaving Sunderland in October 2017, Simon Grayson soon found himself back in management after taking up the reigns at Bradford City. The former Black Cats boss signed a deal until the end of the campaign, and he opted to leave the club in May despite being offered an extension. Robbie Stockdale, who worked under Grayson at the Stadium of Light, has been linked with the vacant post, but the Bantams’ wait to appoint Grayson’s successor goes on.
TOP SCORER: CHARLIE WYKE
Only five players bagged more League One goals than Charlie Wyke last season. With a commendable total of 15, Wyke was the only Bradford player to reach double figures and throughout his 18-month spell at Valley Parade he’s performed. The 25-year-old has north-east roots having progressed through the ranks at Middlesbrough - his hometown club - and he’s also turned out for Hartlepool United and Carlisle United.
LAST MEETING: BRADFORD CITY 2-3 SUNDERLAND
Jeremain Lens stole the show in July 2017 when the sides met in pre-season. The Dutchman assisted Josh Maja’s opener before adding a stunning second three minutes later. Billy Jones bundled the ball home to make it 3-0 before the break, but Bradford struck back from the penalty spot with 66 minutes played before striking again in the final stages. Despite winning the last meeting, Sunderland were beaten in the last competitive match-up between the sides, with Bradford producing an FA Cup upset in 2015.