New signing Colin Healy is desperate for action at Valley Parade The Republic of Ireland midfielder completed his loan move from Barnsley yesterday and is set to debut in tomorrow's FA Cup clash with Crewe.

Having spent much of the last three seasons crocked, the former Celtic star is eager to make up for lost time - and help drag City from their mire.

"I was out for about two and a half years and I've had a few setbacks," said Healy, who suffered two leg breaks at Sunderland.

"But I'm back fit now and hopefully I can kick on here with Bradford. I just need to play some games and hopefully I'll get some down here."

Healy, 26, signed for Barnsley this summer but has been limited there to substitute appearances and that hasn't aided his recovery.

The combative schemer nearly ended up at Scottish strugglers Livingston towards the end of last season as he began his road back.

Now he is itching for more football, having had a taste with Barnsley.

"It's been all right but frustrating," he said.

"I've not started any games as the midfielders there are doing really well.

"I've been coming off the bench a lot but I need to play more. The FA Cup would be a great way to start here.

"It should be a good game and hopefully we'll get a win."

City boss Colin Todd has recruited Healy on a month's loan as he looks to shake City out of their losing run.

It is unclear where the new recruit will fit in tomorrow. Midfielder Marc Bridge-Wilkinson completed training unscathed yesterday to prove he's okay after his hamstring strain.

However, Nathan Doyle missed the session due to illness and Ben Parker and Lee Holmes also sat out so Todd may have to shuffle his pack, which could create that much-craved starting spot for Healy.