CHRISTOPHER Routis has already taken City to the Premier League – on the PlayStation.

The French centre half, who will make his debut tonight against Oldham, revealed that he is a real whizz with the Bantams on his game console.

Routis said: “This will be my first game but I’m familiar with this club because when I play on the PlayStation, every time I am Bradford City.

“I have gone to the Premier League as their manager. Now I am playing for them!

“I’m very excited for my start with the team. They are very good at the moment and I think I can help them.

“I’m not nervous. When I’m on the pitch, I am a very relaxed player.

“I like contact and going into tackles but I am very calm. It’s my first game and I want to show the fans and the manager that I am a good player.”

Born in Bordeaux, Routis spent five years with Servette in Switzerland but has harboured ambitions to come to England. A potential move in 2013 was blocked because of problems with the Swiss Super League side.

He added: “They had a lot of problems and started last season with only nine players – the same situation as Blackpool in the Championship.

“I had the chance to go to England then but the club wouldn’t let me go. So I had to stay.

“Playing here is something I’ve wanted to because it is the best. Now is my chance and I’m very happy.”

Routis, who joined on a one-year deal with a further option, believes he is suited to the more physical domestic game.

“I know there is more contact in England but I like that as a defender. You can tackle more – Andrew Davies is very good for that.

“Andrew has made a very good start but Alan (Sheehan) and Rory (McArdle) have done well since his injury.

“Now it is my chance. I want to win the trust of the coach.

“He didn’t think I was ready physically to play against Leeds. I wasn’t happy because every player wanted to play in that game but I understood why.

“Now this is my opportunity and it’s up to me to show that I can do well for this club.”