Bradford City Suspend Graham Alexander After 3–1 Defeat to Doncaster
Bradford, England – Bradford City have suspended manager Graham Alexander with immediate effect following a 3–1 defeat to Doncaster Rovers in the EFL Trophy group stage, deepening the uncertainty surrounding the club’s faltering season.
The decision, confirmed late Tuesday night, was attributed to “internal disciplinary matters” and follows growing pressure on Alexander amid a poor League One campaign. Sources indicate the suspension was influenced by heated exchanges with match officials during the Doncaster loss, where Alexander was seen confronting the fourth official after a disputed penalty call.
Bradford began brightly at the Eco-Power Stadium, taking the lead after 12 minutes when Bobby Pointon finished smartly from Calum Kavanagh’s incisive pass. But the hosts responded after the interval. Joe Ironside equalized from the spot after Aden Baldwin’s challenge was deemed a foul, sparking protests from the Bradford bench.
Momentum swung Doncaster’s way soon after, with Luke Molyneux curling home a second from distance before substitute Ephron Mason-Clark sealed victory in stoppage time. The Bantams managed just two shots on target after the break as their early spark faded.
Already serving a one-match touchline ban for misconduct during an FA Cup loss at Cheltenham Town, Alexander watched from the stands and later admitted frustration at his team’s collapse:
“We’ve got quality, but tonight it deserted us at the worst time,” he said. “The lads gave everything, but against a fired-up Doncaster, it wasn’t enough.”
The defeat marks Bradford’s third loss in four matches, leaving them 18th in League One with eight points from twelve games and the league’s worst defensive record. The mood among supporters has soured sharply, particularly after the club extended Alexander’s contract to 2028 just four months ago.
Club chairman Stefan Rupp addressed the situation in a brief statement:
“We appreciate Graham’s efforts in achieving promotion last year, but results must improve. This decision was not taken lightly, and further updates will follow.”
Assistant manager Chris Lucketti is expected to take interim charge for Saturday’s crucial clash with Burton Albion, as Bradford look to halt their slide toward the relegation zone.
For Alexander, 54, the suspension caps a turbulent spell since joining the Bantams in November 2023. After guiding the club to promotion last season, optimism has quickly evaporated. Whether this latest setback proves temporary or final could define Bradford’s campaign — and Alexander’s future in the dugout.