Bradford City today eased their defensive crisis by signing Sunderland's international defender Andy Melville on loan.

Bantams boss Paul Jewell finalised the move this morning and the 29-year-old looks set to go straight into the side at Middlesbrough tomorrow.

Melville's arrival is a huge boost for City who had been rocked by the news that neither Darren Moore nor John Dreyer are likely to be fit for the tough clash at the Riverside Stadium.

And with Eddie Youds suspended for one game following his dismissal at Ipswich Town two weeks ago, it means the Bantams were left with only one recognised central defender - 18-year-old Andy O'Brien.

Melville has played 31 games for Wales along with one appearance for the B-team and two for the Under 21 side. His last appearance for Sunderland came in their 4-0 defeat at Reading in October, although he did make 30 appearances in the Premiership last season for Reid's side.

Sources in the North East suggest he would possibly be available for £400,000 if City wish to make the deal permanent.

Jewell was left with an anxious wait after agreeing the deal with the Sunderland boss late yesterday only for Reid to be unable to contact Melville.

"We needed to bring a player in as Darren has suffered another reaction to the injury, while John is struggling for fitness.

"Middlesbrough are a very good side and we will need to be on top of our game if we are to gain a good result up there."

Jewell's plans have also been dealt a further blow by the suspension of midfielders Craig Ramage and Nigel Pepper, who both start two-game bans at the Riverside Stadium.

That will stretch City's resources in midfield with Shaun Murray likely to return to the side after being on the bench last weekend in the 1-0 victory over Charlton Athletic.

The City boss has not finalised his line-up yet but has pledged that the suspensions and injuries will not be used as an excuse by his side.

"Whoever makes up the starting 11, I can guarantee that they will give 100 per cent throughout the game. Middlesbrough have had a good season but the important thing is that we fear no-one."

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