Bradford City manager Alexander has struck a calm, optimistic tone after a recent dip in form, telling Radio Leeds that he believes the problems affecting his side are "easily fixable" as the Bantams prepare to face fellow League One side Mansfield Town.

Measured response to a difficult run

Speaking to BBC Radio Leeds ahead of the meeting with Mansfield, Alexander was keen to avoid panic despite Bradford's recent struggles in the third tier. The manager, according to the broadcast, took a balanced view of where things have gone wrong, suggesting the issues are tactical and technical rather than anything more deeply rooted.

"I think it's easily fixable," Alexander is understood to have said, according to the Radio Leeds interview. That kind of composure from a manager during a sticky patch can be vital in maintaining squad confidence, and Alexander appears determined not to allow a brief downturn to derail what Bradford are trying to build this season.

The Bantams have faced testing early-season conditions, as reflected in recent results, but the manager's public stance is one of quiet confidence rather than alarm. His willingness to acknowledge the dip while framing it as correctable will be welcomed by supporters eager to see Bradford push in the right direction in League One.

Mansfield the next test

The timing of Alexander's comments is significant: Mansfield Town arrive as the next opponents, making this a particularly meaningful fixture in the context of the early-season table. Mansfield, also a League One club this term, come into the game carrying their own form and momentum from recent weeks, which means Bradford will need to address their issues quickly if they are to take anything from the encounter.

Mansfield boss Clough has been vocal in recent weeks about his side's qualities, particularly going forward, and the fixture has the makings of a genuine third-tier contest between two clubs with clear ambitions for the campaign. For Bradford, it represents an opportunity to demonstrate that Alexander's optimism is well-founded.

The Bantams have already shown they can compete at this level, with a notable win over Sheffield Wednesday earlier in the season highlighting their potential. However, consistency has proven elusive, and the manager will be well aware that words alone will not be enough; the performance and result against Mansfield will matter far more.

What to look for from Bradford

Alexander is understood to be focusing his attention on the collective shape and energy of his squad rather than singling out individuals for criticism. That approach, according to the Radio Leeds interview, reflects a manager who sees the current difficulties as a team-wide issue with team-wide solutions, rather than a problem concentrated in one position or one player.

Bradford have been active in the transfer market during the early weeks of the season, adding several loan arrivals to strengthen the squad. Whether those reinforcements can help arrest the dip in form against Mansfield remains to be seen, but Alexander's relaxed public demeanour suggests he retains faith in the group at his disposal.

For supporters, the message from the manager is a straightforward one: the problems are understood, the fixes are within reach, and the Mansfield fixture is the moment to start proving it on the pitch. League One rarely offers the luxury of a soft run of games to find form, and Bradford will need to rediscover their best quickly if they are to make a meaningful impact on the season.

Frequently asked

What did Bradford City manager Alexander say about their recent poor form?
Alexander told BBC Radio Leeds that he believes Bradford's recent dip in form is 'easily fixable', taking a balanced and calm view of the situation rather than pressing the panic button ahead of the Mansfield fixture.
When do Bradford City play Mansfield Town?
The interview was recorded on 2 September 2026, ahead of Bradford's upcoming League One fixture against Mansfield Town. Check the official club channels for the confirmed kick-off time.
How have Bradford City been performing in League One this season?
Bradford have had a mixed start to the League One season. Notable results include a win over Sheffield Wednesday, but the manager has acknowledged a recent dip in form that he is confident the squad can put right.