Bradford City boss Graham Alexander has admitted he was “envious” watching Lincoln City celebrate promotion, as the Imps’ success continues to set the benchmark in League One.
With City already up and looking for the title today, attention is naturally turning to those still fighting to join us, and Bradford are one of the sides chasing that same dream.
Alexander has openly acknowledged that Lincoln’s achievement has not gone unnoticed inside Valley Parade. In fact, he is using it as fuel, both for himself and his players, as they push to secure a play-off place in the final weeks of the campaign.
Speaking ahead of their clash with Barnsley, Alexander reflected on seeing City celebrate promotion and the emotional impact that had.
“I was envious of seeing Lincoln celebrating. I was looking at them thinking, I remember that last year, that was a brilliant feeling and I want it again.”
“I think it’s important to be able to motivate yourself, to have an idea of where you want to be and the path that you have to take towards that.”
For many, the Imps have become the reference point for how to achieve success, but in fairness, Alexander has achieved some success. Bradford were fresh out of League One, so to be above the likes of big-spending Huddersfield and Luton is a massive achievement. All they have to do now is finish the job.
Lincoln setting the standard
What I really like is how Alexander describes using those emotions as motivation, because it justifies Lincoln’s recent approach. In media interviews, there was no talk of promotion before it was done, no quotes to put on the dressing room wall for opponents, and it is clear from this interview that clubs do use others to drive their standards.
Alexander is effectively pointing to Lincoln as the example, urging his squad to picture themselves in the same position. That is exactly where we are now, not just promoted, but shaping the narrative of the division. There is also a clear parallel with Bradford’s own recent history. Alexander spoke about using the pain of near misses to drive future success, something Lincoln supporters will recognise from previous campaigns.
The difference now is that we have completed this leg of the journey, while others are still chasing it.
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