Colin Todd today took up the City helm and declared: I'll give it my best shot.

Todd succeeds Bryan Robson in charge after half a season as his right-hand man.

And as exclusively revealed in yesterday's T&A, youth-team coach Bobby Davison will be his No 2.

In his first interview since being officially confirmed as the new Bantams boss, Todd was thrilled to accept a challenge which has become something of a poisoned chalice in recent seasons.

"It's been a long, drawn-out saga and there has been a lot of talk about whether the club would survive. At one stage it was very grim, but let's hope that is all behind us now.

"People can't get carried away and talk about promotion but it's paramount that we get off to a good start. If we do, it will give the supporters that belief.

"It's still going to be a blinking hard struggle and anyone who thinks otherwise is in for a rude awakening. But it's a big opportunity and everyone will give it the maximum."

Todd has the backing of Robson to take over the job. He spoke to his former boss before agreeing to take charge.

And Todd has already put out feelers for out-of-contract players. His priority will be increasing numbers in a first-team squad that has been cut right back by the on-going effects of administration.

But he added: "We've all got to be positive and forget about the club being in administration. There is no point for any doom or gloom."

Todd has already cancelled the pre-season friendly at Halifax on August 3 - four days before the start of the League One campaign. He wants a free week to fine-tune his team.