‘Will be back’ – Blackburn Rovers man to return against Bradford City, says Valerien Ismael
Blackburn Rovers manager Valerien Ismael has confirmed that Todd Cantwell will be back in contention for Tuesday night’s Carabao Cup clash with Bradford City, providing a timely boost to his squad after a disappointing start to the new Championship campaign.
The attacking midfielder, who joined Rovers in the summer, was left out of the matchday squad for Saturday’s 1-0 defeat to West Bromwich Albion at The Hawthorns. Ismael explained that Cantwell’s absence was purely precautionary, with the player nursing a minor issue that the club were keen not to aggravate so early in the season.
Speaking ahead of the first-round tie at Ewood Park, the Rovers boss was upbeat about the 26-year-old’s readiness to return.
> “Todd will be back for Bradford,” Ismael said. “He trained fully with the group this week, and we just didn’t want to take any risks with him at West Brom. It’s a long season, and we need everyone fit and available. Now he’s ready to go again.”
Cantwell’s return will be welcomed by supporters, particularly after Rovers struggled to find attacking rhythm in the defeat to Carlos Corberán’s Baggies. Without his creative spark in midfield, Blackburn found it difficult to break down a well-organised opponent, and the absence of quality chances ultimately cost them the chance to take anything from the game.
The cup meeting with Bradford offers Rovers an opportunity to bounce back quickly. Ismael is expected to make a handful of changes from the side that featured in the league opener, balancing the need to progress in the competition with the importance of managing his players’ workloads.
Cantwell, however, looks set to play a significant role. Signed to bring vision, flair, and a cutting edge to Blackburn’s attacking play, the former Norwich City and Rangers man is viewed as a key figure in Ismael’s plans. His ability to operate between the lines and unlock defences could be decisive against a League Two opponent expected to sit deep and look for counter-attacking opportunities.
Bradford, managed by Graham Alexander, will arrive at Ewood Park looking to cause an upset. The Bantams have a strong cup tradition and will be backed by a sizeable travelling support. Ismael acknowledged the threat they pose, stressing the importance of matching the visitors’ intensity.
> “Cup games are always dangerous if you underestimate your opponent,” he warned. “We have to be focused from the first whistle, play our game, and make sure we are clinical when the chances come.”
The match could also see opportunities for some of Rovers’ younger players, with Ismael hinting at giving minutes to those on the fringes of the starting XI. However, he made clear that progression in the Carabao Cup remains a priority, both for building momentum and for giving the squad valuable competitive minutes.
With Cantwell back in the mix and eager to make his first competitive appearance for the club, Rovers fans will be hoping Tuesday night marks the start of a more positive run. Victory over Bradford would not only secure a place in the next round but also help restore confidence ahead of the next Championship fixture.
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