Bradford City boss Parkinson would choose cup glory over league (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Bradford City boss Phil Parkinson would choose cup glory over league

8:20am Saturday 23rd February 2013 in Sport By Sports Desk

Phil Parkinson admits his priorities have switched after reaching the Capital One Cup final

City boss Phil Parkinson has broken with convention by claiming he would take a cup triumph over league success.

Parkinson’s task at the start of the season was to execute a rebuilding exercise that would begin the process of moving the Bantams back up the leagues.

Yet City’s present position of 11th in League Two would be a source of satisfaction for no-one had it not been for a quite extraordinary Capital One Cup run, which reaches its climax against Swansea at Wembley tomorrow.

And while some may prefer to talk about the bread and butter of weekly league combat, the 45-year-old from Chorley has his sights firmly set on the record books.

“All along the league has been our priority. I cannot hide away from that,” he said.

“But we are in the final at Wembley and have a chance of getting into Europe.

“So I can honestly say now, if we had the choice of two things, it would have to be winning the cup.

“We are a League Two team. We have created history by getting this far. It would be truly amazing if we could pull it off.”

And how would City handle that? Possibly an unexpected insurance premium for a start to ensure a trophy – something Arsene Wenger has not got his hands on for eight years – can be protected properly.

Perhaps a map of Europe to plot a Europa League campaign that may well start in July and end in August?

Of far greater importance though is investment to push the club forward, with the present run having already given a massive financial boost.

“The chairman has done a great job clearing the debts but now it is their job – and mine – to ensure this extra revenue is used to keep improving the structure of the club and make sure our supporters have a club that will flourish in years to come,” added Parkinson.

“As much as we want to enjoy this weekend, it is really important this revenue is used wisely. I am sure it will be.”