Phil Parkinson is likely to resist the temptation to throw in youngsters for the final weeks of City’s season.

With their League Two safety cemented, barring a crazy run of results, the Bantams boss can start to plan ahead.

But Parkinson is also keen to sign off a difficult campaign with a bang, so he is not expected to add any surprise names to the squad for Saturday’s clash with second-bottom Macclesfield.

“It’s always important that any young player who gets a chance in the first team deserves it and is ready,” said the City boss.

“I’ve learned from past experience that youngsters have got to be right before they are thrown in. It can be more damaging if they aren’t physically up to it.

“We want to finish the season well and that’s important for everyone. We are going to pick the team that we feel is best to get the right results.”

Guy Branston hopes to be fit for the weekend after suffering a slight adductor muscle strain during the win at Northampton. The big centre half felt it during the first half but played on for the rest of the game.

Parkinson has no need to risk the former skipper if he feels the injury is not right. Lee Bullock would be the obvious replacement after making way for Luke Oliver’s return.

Bullock had filled in confidently alongside Branston as a makeshift partnership when Oliver and Andrew Davies were banned but found himself back on the bench at Sixfields.

Parkinson said: “I just felt that we needed Luke’s extra height in the team, bearing in mind Northampton were a physical and strong side. Long throws and set plays are a big part of their armoury.

“Bully has done well but equally Olly has had a terrific season back there. But Bully has played wherever we’ve asked him and never let anyone down. He’s been unlucky not to keep his place.

“It’s good to have players in the squad like that who can feature in a number of positions. He’s filled in midfield in important home games or at the back – he can play different roles well.”

Meanwhile, Ritchie Jones is training fine after feeling no effects from the whack on the hip that he took.

Last night’s reserve game with Hull was called off early to protect the Valley Parade pitch for the weekend.