CES Podd, Stuart McCall, Bobby Campbell - City fans of every generation have their favourite-ever player, but for many younger ones Stephen Darby might be their choice.

The right-back played 194 times in the claret and amber in five years from 2012 in a golden era for the club.

The Scouser ticked many of the boxes needed in a fans' favourite; leader, committed, no-nonsense, competitive and whole-hearted. You always knew you'd get everything from Darby.

The fact two of his former manager during his Bantams spell wax lyrical about him says it all. McCall and Phil Parkinson (who went on to sign him for Bolton Wanderers when he was released by City in 2017) says it all.

The fact his fundraising match has attracted his former club Liverpool, fresh from their Champions League victory last month, also speaks volumes.

Fans will forever look back on his spell at Valley Parade with happiness; the huge crowds, connected between supporters and their side - all epitomised by captain marvel Darby.

But it will be the cup runs from his time at City that he will be most remembered for.

His one and only goal for the club came on September 25, 2012 in a 3-2 win over Burton Albion in the third round of the League Cup. This was the catalyst for their now-legendary run to the final where they beat Wigan Athletic, Arsenal and Aston Villa along the way, before succumbing to Swansea City at Wembley in the 2013 final.

Further success in the silverware followed in 2015 with the Bantams' equally as fabled FA Cup run, epitomised by the fourth round win against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. Darby was a big part of that victory and that cup run with his leadership skills on full display.

Darby also received recognition off the field while he still played for the club, winning seven prizes at City's player-of-the-year awards night in May 2014.

So, City fans, hold your scarves up high in the air and sing 'Stephen Darby Baby' to celebrate a true club legend, remembering how much awe-inspiring effort he gave you in your club's jersey.