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  • ""Funny old game innit"? Roberto Di Matteo close to being sacked/replaced because he did not win the league, only the European cup and F.A.Cup. Hundreds of Grecians wanting out within the next two years so is this our chance for the local Greek restaunteers to supply sponsorship ? ps. so how much does a Greek urn then.?/?/"
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Baldwin: Bradford City set to go for the jugular next season

7:40am Saturday 26th May 2012 in Sport Photograph of the Author By Simon Parker , Bradford City Reporter

Phil Parkinson came in for some criticism last season for his tactically cautious approach Phil Parkinson came in for some criticism last season for his tactically cautious approach

Phil Parkinson is ready to let City off the leash next season.

Fans can look forward to an expansive approach as the club aim to make their mark among League Two’s pace-setters.

Defensive rock Andrew Davies became the first summer capture this week and Parkinson has other offers on the table.

He confirmed yesterday’s T&A exclusive that former Bantams striker Andy Gray is among the targets.

Parkinson said: “He is one of a number of players we are looking at.”

Director of operations David Baldwin believes the new-look City will be encouraged to “go for the jugular” without the shackles of last season’s fight for survival.

Champions Swindon conceded the fewest goals and Baldwin insists that is proof that attack is the best form of defence.

He said: “Why did Swindon Town have 26 clean sheets last year? It wasn’t down to having the best defence but they were very good going forward.

“It’s very clear from Phil’s perspective what he needs to do. He’s taken a leaf out of the books of all these teams that have done well.

“The signs of improvement were there towards the end but nobody’s sitting on their laurels.

“It’s a case of getting a high tempo, enthusiastic team that goes at the opposition and wins games.”

City netted 54 league goals last season, the sixth lowest tally in the division and 25 less than top scorers Gillingham.

Critics accused them of being too cautious at times but Baldwin feels that was down to circumstances.

He added: “I agree there was an element of caution but that came from the fact that we had a team low on confidence and lacking in ability in certain areas in the early stages.

“If someone’s cut themselves, the first thing you do is stem the flow of blood before worrying about how it’s going to heal.

“When confidence is low and you’re in a situation of a lot of defeats, the first reaction is to protect your own position.

“You tend not to go for the jugular with other teams. But this time we will start from pre-season with a clear intent.”

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