Record signing Isaiah Rankin could be just the man to lead Bradford City into the second round of the Worthington Cup.

City found Second Division Lincoln City difficult to handle in last week 1-1 draw in the first leg at Valley Parade, but they have an extra weapon in their armoury for tonight's second leg at Sincil Bank.

For, three days after that match they signed exciting 20-year-old Rankin from Arsenal for a club record £1.3 million.

Rankin has recovered from the cramp that caused him to leave the field in the 1-0 defeat at Watford and manager Paul Jewell said: "I thought he looked sharp at Watford and with a bit of luck he could have scored three goals," he said. "I think he will score his goals and he will be a major asset for us.

"The fans will love him, his pace is frightening, he wants to score goals and I think he will be sensational.

"To say he had only arrived the day before I think he adapted very well and hit the post early in the game.

"Being our record signing, coming into first team football from Arsenal reserves was a major step, but I think he handled it well.

"Remember he only arrived at the club the day before and didn't know a lot of the players' names. Since the Watford match we have been working on getting some understanding between them."

"We are not just looking to progress into the Worthington Cup, but we are looking for a win that will kick start our results.''

To go through to the next stage, when most of the Premiership clubs join the competition, City will have to cope with Lincoln's combative style of play and their notorious long ball tactics, but Jewell said: "Although we acknowledge their style of play, I am sure if we can match them physically our football should come through."

Jewell still has a long injury list, including Stuart McCall (ankle) and Gordon Watson (thigh), but said there is a slight chance that left back Lee Todd might have recovered from his groin strain.

One player definitely back in the squad is striker Robbie Blake who is available again after missing three matches through suspension.

Lincoln, who beat Wigan 1-0 at home on Saturday with a goal from new signing Tony Battersby, are likely to be unchanged.

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