Kyle Nix is playing for his City future over Christmas.

The left-sided midfielder's short-term deal expires in the new year and he is busting a gut to persuade Stuart McCall to keep him on.

But Nix insists he does not feel any added pressure - because he has been thinking like that since coming to the club.

"It doesn't matter what contract you're on, whether it's for six months or three years, it's always down to how much you want it," he said.

"You have to do everything you can to succeed in football and with the club you're at and that's what I've been trying to do.

"It's not just a case of trying to impress now because my contract is nearly up. I've tried to do that from day one.

"Every day in training is as important as every game. You have to give 100 per cent commitment and effort no matter what."

Hard-working Nix gave his survival chances a timely shot in the arm with his spectacular equaliser at Chesterfield. It was his third goal in 15 starts for the Bantams and a memorable way to get off the mark in the league.

He said: "It was my first and hopefully not my last - and not a bad one to start off with. As soon as I hit it I knew the ball was going in, which was a great feeling.

"It was one of those games when you've really got to want it because of the weather and the puddles all over the pitch. I know it was borderline as to whether it would be off but we wanted to play and I'm glad we did.

"Mansfield was tough as well because it was pretty boggy, so they were two games that really took a lot out of you, but the lads have shown good character to get something both times."

McCall last week questioned the desire of his squad and wondered whether some were happy to simply underachieve. Nix, who also worked with him at Sheffield United, is well aware his boss will not put up with any shirking.

He said: "The gaffer's a winner and he wants that mentality within us all. He always wants to succeed with everything, whether it's in little five-a-side games in training or head tennis competitions - he doesn't accept second best.

"The gaffer and Jakes (Wayne Jacobs) expect that same commitment from all of us. I want to be part of that and it's great to be playing week in, week out in the team.

"But you cannot afford to take anything for granted. The only way you will keep your place is by giving 100 per cent all the time."

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