Bradford boss Stuart McCall was at Brunton Park last night to check on Carlisle United - and said having fans back gave the Blues a big advantage.

McCall's struggling side host Carlisle this weekend and the Bantams manager made the trip to Cumbria to watch Chris Beech's side.

He said the 2,000 United fans who were allowed into the game created a good atmosphere.

Speaking to the Telegraph & Argus, McCall said: “There seemed to be more than 2,000 in the ground, that’s for sure.

“It’s a bit of normality. You’re driving to a game and you can’t get a car park spot, there are people buying hot dogs, there’s a buzz about the stadium...

“I don’t think 2,000 at Anfield or West Ham is going to create any atmosphere but it certainly did [at Brunton Park] last night.

“I would never say we shouldn’t let fans in – but it certainly is a big advantage to have supporters in your ground.

“In the first minute of the game, the ball goes down the line and there’s a nudge. Nothing in it but the crowd are in uproar and the referee gives a free-kick to Carlisle.

“Take nothing away from Carlisle. They were lively and got the crowd going and it was a good atmosphere from their point of view."

Bradford currently cannot open their gates to supporters as they are in a Tier 3 area under the new Covid-19 rules. Carlisle are in Tier 2.

“It’s something I’m envious of if I’m being honest," he added.

“Just looking back at our game [against Cheltenham] the other night and there was probably a shout for a penalty when the boy goes into the back of Clayton [Donaldson].

“I’ve no doubt if we’d had fans in the ground the referee might have given it. It’s only a natural reaction when it’s a 50/50 and you hear the crowd shouting.

“Obviously it’s a positive to have fans back and the sooner it can be a level playing field the better. Because especially at our level, having a crowd of 2,000 creates a good little atmosphere.”