ALEX Gilliead insists City will not take a backward step in their demanding double-header on the road.

The Bantams travel to early League One pace-setters Peterborough this weekend and ambitious Oxford three days later.

But having scored ten goals in the last three outings, Gilliead is ready for Stuart McCall's side to take the game to their hosts.

The on-loan Newcastle flyer said: "I've worked with different managers and some will go away and just look to catch the home team on the counter.

"But this gaffer just wants us to focus on ourselves and not them. If we believe we can beat anyone, going away is no different to playing at home.

"We're going to have to beat the best if we want to be up there.

"But I think we've started the season well with just one defeat (against Blackburn) and in that game we could have probably nicked a draw.

"And Walsall the other week was one of those results you see only happen once a season.

"We're scoring goals but still conceding – but they are little things we need to brush up on. Work on them and it will come good.

"We've brought in quite a few attacking players and can play in various different ways.

"We can play with different personnel in different positions and I think that is always good. It keeps everyone on their toes and pushes everyone in the squad."

Gilliead is running into form after starting the last three games and he admits there is case of "unfinished business" on his part in his second Valley Parade loan spell.

"I wanted to come back, get as many games as I can and show people what I can do," said the winger.

"Last season didn't go to plan, with getting injured as well. It was disappointing to get beaten at Wembley and, on a personal note, not to come on.

"The game was going on and you're biting your nails. It doesn't matter who you are, you're going to be nervous.

"I was warming up itching to get on and when the goal goes in,you're like 'chuck us on'.

"It was just the luck on the day went against us – but I think this year we'll have a right go again."

Gilliead felt it was a "no brainer" hooking up with McCall again, initially until January.

He admires the way the City boss is not frightened to shuffle his pack, a tactic that can keep the opposition guessing.

Gilliead said: "Coming into the team at Walsall, I hadn't started in the league since I came back. That's the surprise factor we have.

"Other teams aren't going to know what to expect because he's (McCall) not frightened to make changes.

"We've got a lot of quality in the team who can do different things. I think it's a good group this year."