DAVID Hopkin is running the rule over a group of trialists as he battles on to bring in reinforcements for City.

The head coach will not ease up in his player search despite hitting a brick wall with his free-agent efforts up to now.

Paul Caddis continues to train with the Bantams while Hopkin is understood to be monitoring an additional four trialists at Apperley Bridge.

He said: “We’re having a look at every option that we can.

“I’m trying to get players in that will help us get away from where we are. We’ll have a look to see who’s available now.

“There are one or two (targets) still ongoing and the deals aren’t dead. But you have to get the right players in who can maybe strengthen us in certain areas of the pitch.”

Hopkin has already voiced his disappointment at missing out on possible recruits because terms could not be agreed. But that will not put him off his search.

“I don’t get frustrated or uptight with people,” he added.

“It might be they want too much money or it’s the length of contract – anything that doesn’t suit both parties. I won’t pay over the odds.

“I’m obviously disappointed at the time but I move on quickly to another target.

“If somebody doesn’t want to come and play for us, then I don’t lose anything over it.

“You’re trying to get the best deal possible for the club and the player. But sometimes these things aren’t meant to be.”

City will assess Jim O’Brien to see if he can join in with the squad again. He underwent a fitness test on Monday with physio Chris Royston.

Danny Devine is also stepping up his training after recovering from his foot injury. He has not featured for the senior side since March.

Hopkin said: “Young Danny was back for a couple of days last week, just joining in passing drills and different things.

“He’s back full training now so that’s another boost. There are opportunities for everybody.

“We need to get people back and make the squad as strong as we can so that there is competition for places.

“Get Danny and Jim and it’s another two in the midfield area to do that.

“We just need to get that more competitive edge in certain areas of the pitch.

“Hopefully if there are one or two free agents that are going to strengthen us, it’s something we’ll definitely look at doing.”

Hopkin is still waiting for the luxury of picking his strongest team as City look to snap their current losing streak which has dropped them to the League One basement.

He said: “We need to keep persevering and keep going. On Saturday, we should at least have had a point.

“Even when we have lost games, it’s been mistakes again. Rochdale was two penalties and against Coventry we were 2-0 down in 12 minutes.

“The most frustrating game was at Gillingham. I thought we played really well for the first 45 minutes but we couldn’t score.

“But you have to remember we were playing a centre back, who’s 20, at left back and a left back in Connor Wood at right back.

“You can make excuses but these things make it a difficult situation. I’ve still not picked the same team twice since I’ve been here.”