City chairman Julian Rhodes met worried fans to clear the air after Peter Etherington's surprise departure from the club.

The Bradford City Supporters' Trust requested the meeting amid concerns that the loss of Etherington's planned £2.5million investment would leave the club scuppered.

But Rhodes eased their fears during a wide-ranging discussion and reiterated that City are on a solid footing.

"I understand why Bradford City supporters are concerned at the news that Peter Etherington's proposed investment is not going to happen," he said.

"I met with members of the Trust to explain to them why these concerns are unnecessary.

"The meeting was very constructive and I look forward to our future monthly meetings being equally as productive."

Trust members expressed their fears that promised changes and improvements on the commercial and sporting sides of the club might have been exaggerated.

But Rhodes, pictured, indicated that he had been able to protect the players' budget available to manager Colin Todd despite the lack of new investment.

He also suggested that revenues generated from commercial activities would need to improve, although plans were in place to make this happen.

Rhodes added that improvements to fans' facilities in catering and other areas will be implemented, while the initiatives agreed between Etherington and the Trust were confirmed with one or two exceptions.

The club are still hopeful of breaking even this season and Rhodes is considering new sources of investment.

BCST chairman Alan Carling said: "We are grateful to Julian Rhodes for meeting the Trust at short notice and we are reassured by what he has told us.

"It is excellent news that the budget for players has not been damaged, despite Peter Etherington's departure, and that improving the commercial side of the club remains a priority.

"Although I can fully understand the worries felt by many supporters, it is time to get behind the lads on the pitch and to look forward once again to a successful season."