Huddersfield Town have confirmed their starting lineup for Saturday's Sky Bet League One West Yorkshire derby against Bradford City, with one change from their previous side. Head coach Martin Drury has recalled defender Radinio Balker to the backline after the player recovered from a hamstring issue.
Balker's return sees Ibane Bowat move to the substitutes' bench, where he is joined by goalkeeper Jak Alnwick and outfield players Lynden Gooch, Marcus Harness, Ethan Brierley, Jay Sway and Samson Tovide. The starting eleven sees Matty Young in goal, with a backline of Joe Low, Archie Collins, the returning Balker and Seán Roughan. Cam Humphreys will captain the side from midfield, flanked by Bali Mumba and Derensili Sanches Fernandes, while the strike partnership of Joe Taylor and Ashley Fletcher is retained.
Key absences listed
Several players are unavailable for selection at Valley Parade. Marcus McGuane is out with an ACL injury, Jack Whatmouth has a calf problem, and Murray Wallace is sidelined with a knee issue. Forward Bojan Radulovic is missing with a hamstring injury, and midfielder Ryan Ledson begins a three-game suspension.
Recent performance context
The bench holds proven match-winners from a recent emphatic victory. Both Jay Sway and Samson Tovide were on the scoresheet in Huddersfield's 6-2 away win against Bolton Wanderers in midweek, offering Drury significant firepower if needed from the sidelines.
The match is a significant local fixture for both clubs. Huddersfield will be looking to build momentum in the league, with their attacking options bolstered by the recent form of their substitutes. The return of Balker adds stability to a defence that will be tested in the derby atmosphere. The game kicks off at Valley Parade on Saturday afternoon.
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