As an avid Stoke fan as much as their player, loan striker Louis Moult would love to break his City duck against Port Vale.

The 18-year-old has appeared in every game so far without notching a first senior goal. Tomorrow would be the perfect place to start.

“It would be brilliant to score against Vale,” smiled Moult, who is with the Bantams until January 3.

“I was born about ten minutes away from Burslem and Vale, so it means quite a lot to me. The rivalry between Stoke and Vale has always been quite big.

“I grew up supporting Stoke but my brother used to play for Vale’s youth team when he was younger.

“It was a bit of a weird situation with my dad, whether he was going to watch me or my brother playing for Stoke or Vale!”

Moult was subbed at half-time against Southend and can appreciate the crowd’s reaction to a dismal night. But he is confident that City can win them over again.

“The fans pay their money and they can do as they like. I’m not going to deny them that. It’s their football club and they are passionate. I understand that – I’ve been the same with Stoke.

“From my point of view, it is a bit of a shock to the system because I’ve not really got any experience of playing in front of that many fans. But the more experienced players step up to that and hopefully help the younger lads.

“I don’t think anyone is nervous at home. It’s just if we can get that one win and then start going forward.

“It’s been a frustrating start but everyone believes in each other and believes we can get a run going.”

Vale arrive at Valley Parade in fifth spot, having won both of their away games. But they also slipped up last week at home to Torquay.

Moult added: “All the fans at Vale were positive about Micky Adams last year and what he was going to do there. I’m sure that hasn’t changed.

“We’ve got an experienced manager here and people saying we should be out of this league, so they are in the same boat. It should be an interesting game.”