TONY McMahon laughs out loud at the thought of trying to replicate Kyel Reid by tearing down the wing.

He is still getting to grips with his latest position on the right of City's midfield. But Mr 'play anywhere' is fast becoming a key component in the team's improving fortunes.

"A flying winger!" he smiled. "I can't imagine it but I am happy doing a job for the team wherever the manager picks me. My role is to help Darbs (Stephen Darby) as well but I have got to get forward when I can.

"Reidy is a lot more attacking than I am, so it gives us a really nice balance when he goes and I can tuck in. We look a bit more solid with three in there when Reidy is attacking."

McMahon has filled various holes since arriving at Valley Parade, at first on loan from Blackpool in March.

Being a 'jack of all trades' can have its advantages in a small squad; but on the down side, he has no obvious position.

The right-back berth where he specialised in his time at Middlesbrough is sewn up by skipper Darby, so McMahon has found himself dotted around the side in various defensive and midfield areas.

Not that he is complaining – McMahon is happy to go with the flow as long as he keeps getting a game.

He said: "You know what you are going to get (from me). I work my socks off and run around, tackle and cross. Anything I can help the team with, I will do. I will be happy as long as I keep playing."

McMahon's season made a stuttering start as a virus drained him of energy. With that gone, he has fought his way back in and helped Parkinson solve the dilemma of losing wide players through injury.

It may not look a natural fit but the City boss appreciates what he brings to the midfield – and top-notch delivery from corners and free-kicks.

Parkinson said: "It's on the money every time. When Gary Jones used to take them for us, he was very consistent in his delivery and Tony has got that ability too.

"McMahon's character has been really important for us. It's nous and football intelligence, which sometimes you don't notice from the stand but we can see it.

"He has that understanding of the role. He's been captain at teams before and has got great leadership qualities."

McMahon has claimed an assist from his corners in City's last three goals and Parkinson praised his impact against Wigan, particularly the way he marshalled Billy Knott and Lee Evans alongside him.

The Bantams boss said: "You've got to remember Evans and Knott is a young midfield and they were up against experienced players. But Tony was immense in his running, his talking and his encouragement of the young players."

The only thing missing so far – other than a lung-busting acceleration down the touchline – is a goal.

McMahon admitted: "I am due one. Parky (Steve Parkin) fancied before the Doncaster game that I was going to score. I went really close and hopefully one flies in soon."