Bantams boss Graham Alexander's update on Lewis Richards

The left wing-back has been out since the Boxing Day game with a calf problem.

Graham Alexander revealed Richards’ frustration at missing out after becoming a regular in his plans.

But he also praised the way Liam Ridehalgh has slotted back in following his own lengthy absence.

Alexander said: “Lewis is planning on being out on the grass next week.

“I spoke to him and he says he feels a lot better than he did previously.

“We talked about the management of his condition to be able to put 40-50 games a season together.

“He’s well aware of that. That’s his ambition.

“He’s really frustrated because he was playing well and in the team.

“That’s why professionals have to be professionals, so you don’t drop out.

“I’m not suggesting he didn’t do anything like that but I think you can help yourself with little niggles and stuff. He’s itching to get back.”

Ridehalgh took over from Richards for the double header over the New Year weekend and will continue on that left side against Crawley.

The experienced defender had not played since the Barrow game in November when he was forced off early with a head injury.

Alexander insists Ridehalgh’s return is an example for those not currently involved to make sure they are primed for a possible call.

Liam Ridehalgh had not played since November 11 before his recall (Image: Thomas Gadd)

“We speak about that all the time,” added the City boss.

“We bring up experiences of players that have just had to be ready to jump into the team.

“Liam Ridehalgh is an example of that. He came off injured in our first game and hasn’t played for almost two months.

“Lewis drops out and he has to go straight in to get games. But he’s ready with the way he trains and looks after himself.

“All the players have to be ready. That’s their professional responsibility.

“You get paid a decent amount of money to be prepared physically and mentally and train well.

“If you play well and the team does well, you keep the shirt. That’s got to be the target for every player.

“We don’t ignore the players who aren’t playing. We work them hard, we work them properly for their own benefit.

“We don’t want them coming in the team, going back out and then playing with us because they haven’t trained hard enough.

“We train at a level where the physicality won’t be an issue for them. It’s just down to them to perform.”