Roberts sent to Bradford

Roberts,26, has been unable to force his way into the team and has summer signing David Graham above him in the pecking order. Both having been trying to break up the partnership of Ellington and Roberts, that has been fruitful for the Latics.

Bradford boss, Colin Todd, would have been prevented from strengthening the team under normal circumstances as he already has a pool of 18 first team players. The maximum Bradford can have, since they are in administration.

But the Football League yesterday gave City the green light to make a loan signing as Todd could be without five players for tomorrow's match against Bristol City at Valley Parade.

Meanwhile Mike Flynn, who has extended his loan deal at Blackpool will line-up against fellow Latic, Paul Mitchell who is on loan at Swindon Twon as the two sides face each other.