Stevenage v Bradford preview

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Boro will check on Darius Charles ahead of the game at the weekend.

Defender-turned-striker Charles had to go off with an ankle injury during the first half of Boro’s 2-1 Capital One Cup defeat at Everton after a hefty challenge from Tony Hibbert.

Former Sunderland youngster Oumare Tounkara came on in attack for Charles and could start against the Bantams.

Boss Graham Westley could make further changes after their exertions in taking the Premier League side to extra-time but winger Lucas Akins (ankle) and defender Ben Chorley (groin) are expected to miss out again.

Bradford winger Mark Yeates faces a late fitness test ahead of the game at Stevenage.

Yeates is struggling with a knee complaint that required a recent injection and although he started in last week’s home win over Sheffield United he was replaced after 65 minutes.

Kyel Reid is likely to step up if boss Phil Parkinson decides to rest Yeates, while striker James Hanson is expected to continue despite recently breaking a bone in his hand.

Parkinson has no other new injury or suspension worries as the Bantams look to add to the seven points they have taken from their first four matches.

Stevenage v Bradford preview

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Stevenage manager Graham Westley is unlikely to make changes as he looks to guide his side to a sixth consecutive win.

Left-back Scott Laird could return to the side after recovering from the Achilles injury he sustained in the 2-0 win over Burton.

With a fully-fit squad to choose from and no suspension worries, midfielder Darren Murphy is set to continue in midfield.

The 25-year-old broke his leg in August but returned to the side earlier this month and has featured in the last three matches.

Goalkeeper Joe Welch is likely to be named on the bench after joining on loan from Blue Square Bet Premier side Histon.

A Gareth Evans penalty handed Bradford the points when Stevenage made the trip to Yorkshire in August.

Bradford midfielder Jon Worthington will return to the squad following suspension.

The former Huddersfield skipper, who missed last Saturday’s home defeat to Shrewsbury, is back in the reckoning following a one-game ban.

Central defender Luke Oliver could make a surprise return to the squad after a hamstring injury sustained in the recent home draw with Northampton was expected to keep him out for at least three weeks.

Goalkeeper Lenny Pidgeley proved his fitness for the reserves in midweek after missing two games with a thigh injury but Jon McLaughlin has been in fine form in his absence and could retain his place in the starting line-up.

Winger Kevin Ellison remains doubtful due to a thigh injury while young striker Darren Stephenson is hoping to retain his place on the bench after making his debut last week.