SMARTEN up or ship out – that is the message Stuart McCall will keep hammering home to City.

The Bantams boss has already laid it on the line to a squad where most of the players are out of contract at the end of the season.

McCall and number two Kenny Black aim to keep standards high within the group – off the pitch as much as on it.

And McCall has reiterated his message that those who don’t match the levels they want will not be at the club by the summer.

He said: “They’ve got to know the level of commitment and desire we’re after.

“We’ve been slightly sloppy in certain things we’ve been doing, probably more off the pitch than on it.

“There are things we need to tighten up on and they need to know where the standards I expect are.

“They are under no illusions know about what we expect and they’ve got to take that on board.

“If you don’t do that, it’s simple. You won’t be here.

“That’s not a threat but a fact and I think the lads know that.

“They can’t come knocking on my door in a month’s time or three months and say, ‘I didn’t realise this or that.’

“It’s about basic standards, having a level of dedication and doing the right things to the best of your ability.”

McCall takes charge of his fourth game back at City this afternoon when they face Michael Flynn’s Newport. He is expecting another tight contest on a very tricky Rodney Parade pitch.

It will be another big test of character for the Bantams, who are currently ninth and a point behind the last play-off spot.

“A lot of time at this level we’re at, there will be a lot of sides who are much of a muchness in regards quality,” he added.

“It’s about the other bits, the nitty-gritty, the determination, the drive and desire and willingness to want to do things.

“Just enjoy being a footballer. It’s probably the best job in the world.

“Come in each day, enjoy it. Don’t be sloppy or casual, do your work, it’s easy.”