The midfielder, who did not play against Hull in midweek, must settle for a place on the bench.
Meanwhile, Michael Symes was doubtful after picking up a back injury with the reserves but has been named as one of the substitutes.
Donovan Ricketts is out after Jamaica called him up for an international, leaving boss Colin Todd with no cover between the sticks.
Both City and Vale go into the match searching for their fourth win of the season with ten points under their belts so far.
Bantams team: Henderson, Holloway, Jacobs, Wetherall, Bower, Emanuel, Kearney, Crooks, Muirhead, Adebola, Windass, Schumacher, Penford, Symes, Summerbee, Gavin.