GARY Jones is jokingly tempted to pack two kits for the kids at Valley Parade tomorrow.

The legendary City skipper will be a proud spectator when his old club face Liverpool for his close pal Stephen Darby’s charity.

But there is no doubt which team Jones and his family will be rooting for.

“I definitely want a home win,” smiled Jones, a lifelong Everton fan.

“I’m thinking of taking two kits along or wearing a half-and-half one, one Bradford and one Everton!

“The kids are all Everton fans and we’ll be booing the Liverpool team – although in all seriousness, it’s going to be a fantastic day and I can’t wait to watch it.”

Jones and Darby were cornerstones of Phil Parkinson’s history-making side that delivered so many special memories with the City faithful.

They remain in regular touch – Darby had texted his former team-mate just before the interview – and there is no big admirer of the bravery his friend continues to show in the face of the debilitating motor neurone disease.

Jones added: “Darbs is doing really well, he feels good and long may that continue.

“Like he always does, he faces everything full on and in a positive manner.

“It is a horrible situation but he is very determined and just gets on with it. That’s the way he is.”

Eagle-eyed City fans spotted Darby in the crowd during the Women’s World Cup in France, supporting wife Steph Houghton skippering England. He was still on the phone to Jones while away.

“Being over there watching Steph will have done him the world of good,” said Jones.

“He’s just carrying on with the things he wants to do. He’s also got a great circle of friends and family around him which always helps.

“He’s doing really well and it’s going to be great afternoon for him and I’m sure will raise a lot of money for his charity.”

The visit to Valley Parade is one of only two pre-season games that Liverpool are playing in England, so it is a real coup for City to land such a prestige friendly.

Jones was not surprised to see tickets fly out the door for an occasion that is expected to set a new attendance record for the ground since it was rebuilt after the fire disaster.

And he sees it as a fitting tribute for a player who has given everything for the cause with both clubs.

Jones added: “It doesn’t matter when it is with Liverpool, it’s always going to be huge. But at the moment, they are absolute box office after becoming European champions again.

“It’s all fallen in place perfectly and the fact that it’s a sell-out is fantastic. But it’s what Darbs deserves.

“He’s served Liverpool like he serves everyone, with 100 per cent commitment. Nobody works any harder for their club.

“He’s a fantastic person and I can’t speak highly enough of him.

“The kids and I are really looking forward to the occasion. It’s going to be a great atmosphere and it will be emotional as well because we know what it is for.

“Darbs is an unbelievable lad and someone I hold close to my heart. This is the least we can do for him."