Fixtures
Pre-season
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2372524,00.html
Wed 13 July 2011 Silsden AFC A 7.45pm W7-1
Fri 15 July 2011 Matlock Town A 7.45pm D1-1
Tue 19 July 2011 Guiseley A 7.45pm W3-2
Fri 22 July 2011 Bradford (Park Avenue) A 7.45pm L2-3
Sun 24 July 2011 Bolton Wanderers H 3.00pm L1-4
*** NEW *** Wed 27 July 2011 Hull A 7.45pm
Sat 30 July 2011 Carlisle United H 3.00pm
Full season
Got adobe PDF reader? See the fixtures here
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/staticFiles/3/7a/0,,10266~162307,00.pdf
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2376580,00.html
===========================
From the Official BCF Website:
At Horsfall Stadium:
Tom Banks Memorial Trophy (Pre-Season Friendly)
Bradford PA (2) 3 R. O'Brien 3, Denton 25, Law 74
Bradford City (2) 2 Rodney 23, 38
Simon Ramsden made a seemingly successful return to action this Friday as an
unfamiliar looking City side lost the annual Tom Banks Memorial Trophy
friendly fixture to near neighbours Bradford (Park Avenue).
Ramsden managed 45 minutes under his belt on his first appearance of
pre-season and barring any reaction to his run-out, he is now believed to be
under consideration for Sunday's friendly with Bolton Wanderers.
By the time of his planned departure during the interval, four of the
matches five goals had already been netted.
Avenue twice took the lead of the match through fierce efforts from Rob
O'Brien and former City defender Sam Denton, with Nialle Rodney twice
equalising for City after both strikes.
With penalties looking increasingly on the cards to decide the trophy as the
second half progressed still on level terms, Avenue substitute Billy Law
finally settled the contest with a neat finish from a tight angle.
Apart from the likes of Luke O'Brien and Lee Bullock, City's squad on the
night was made up largely of development squad members and trialists.
Including Tom Elliott, who recovered from a recent training ground injury,
City fielded as many as six trialists at one time or another.
After featuring between the sticks against Guiseley on Tuesday, Mark Howard
once again filled the goalkeeping position.
Falkirk winger Jack Compton received a run-out on City's left wing, while
French duo Maxime Blanchard, Loic Lumbilla, youngster Callum Bagshaw and
former Bristol Rovers winger Charlie Reece also featured.
Fresh from penning his one year deal with the Bantams, Nahki Wells featured
in the fixture as a second half substitute.
A trio of City's apprentices - Adam Baker, Nathan Lawless and James Nanje -
came off City's bench to take part in the match as well.
The likes of Guy Branston, Chris Mitchell and Mark Stewart were in the
crowd to lend their support to their team-mates, but there was nothing they
could do to prevent Avenue taking an early lead with a truly stunning
strike.
Midfielder O'Brien took aim from around twenty yards and let rip with a
fierce effort that flew past Howard's outstretched arm and right into the
very top corner of the goal.
City's scratch side were understandably taking their time to find their feet
in the early stages of the match against a clearly motivated opposition, but
Compton did go close with a twelfth minute free-kick from just outside the
area.
Ramsden then crossed for Elliott to send a looping header narrowly over
James Coates' crossbar at the far post.
With City now starting to settle into the match, they grabbed an equaliser
around the midway point of the first period.
After capitalising on a loose pass from James Knowles, Compton led a City
counter-attack deep into Avenue territory.
The winger eventually fed Nialle Rodney, who calmly tucked the ball into the
far corner from an angle.
City didn't stay on level terms for too long, however, as Avenue re-took the
lead barely two minutes later.
Avenue's second goal of the night was nearly as good as their first as
former City defender Sam Denton rifled a low free-kick into the bottom
corner from a yard or so outside the area.
As City went in search of their second equaliser of the night, Luke Dean
went close to finding it as his looping effort from outside the area pinged
off the crossbar.
With time ticking towards the interval, the Bantams did indeed crawl
themselves on level terms after Charlie Reece played Rodney into space
behind Avenue's defence.
The striker needed no second invitation and proceeded to clinically drive
home to double his and City's total for the evening.
As a bitty first half an hour or so, Rodney's latest effort seemed to open
up the game more as the half came to a conclusion.
Both Rodney and Elliott had half-chances in the first period's closing
stages to put City in the lead for the first-time, while Michael Duckworth
side-footed narrowly wide from just inside the area at the other end.
City made a host of changes during the interval as Ramsden was removed from
the action.
During the host of half time alterations, Lumbilla, Baker, Bagshaw, Lawless
and Patrick Lacey were introduced as well.
Early in the second period City made another substitution as Wells was
brought on for Compton.
The changes continued for the Bantams as the second period progressed, with
Nanje being brought on for City's other trialist winger Reece.
With Avenue making a number of substitutions as well, the flow of the match
did seem to naturally suffer as a result.
The slightly mixed up nature of the second period seemed to be summed up
when one of Avenue's subs took to the field wearing last season's strip
Wells did show some bright touches after coming on, but the match continued
to lack clear-cut chances after the restart until a moment of magic from
Law.
The replacement attacker drifted inside a couple of City defenders before
nestling an angled drive in at the near post via a major deflection off the
far post.
City nearly found yet enough equaliser, however, only minutes later but
Coates produced a smart reflex save to turn Wells' close range effort onto
his near post.
With City pushing for what would be their third leveller of the friendly,
Nanje fired a yard or so wide from distance after drifting past a couple of
challenges.
BRADFORD CITY
1. Mark Howard
2. Simon Ramsden
3. Luke O'Brien
4. Scott Brown
5. Lee Bullock (C)
6. Maxime Blanchard
7. Charlie Reece
8. Luke Dean
9. Nialle Rodney
10. Tom Elliott
11. Jack Compton
Substitutes:
12. Patrick Lacey for 2 (46)
13. Tim Dittmer
14. Nahki Wells for 11 (53)
15. Darren Stephenson
16. Adam Baker for 10 (46)
17. Nathan Lawless for 3 (46)
18. James Nanje for 7 (57)
19. Loic Lumbilla for 9 (46)
20. Callum Bagshaw for 4 (46)
===========================
Bolton report
http://www.burndenaces.co.uk/news/bradford_city_1-4_bolton_wanderers_1938?
http://www.bwfc.co.uk/page/General/0,,1004~2400712,00.html?
From the Official BCFC Website...
Pre-Season Friendly.
At Valley Parade:
Bradford C (0) 1 Rodney 71
Bolton W (1) 4 Petrov pen 14, Pratley 65, Davies 87, Klasnic 90.
Att: 2,349 (Visitors 295).
City boss Peter Jackson will have positives to take out of the Bantams'
first home friendly of the summer despite suffering a heavy defeat at the
hands of Premiership side Bolton Wanderers.
BRADFORD CITY
1. Mark Howard
2. Simon Ramsden
3. Luke O'Brien
4. Michael Flynn
5. Guy Branston (C)
6. Steve Williams
7. Dominic Rowe
8. Chris Mitchell
9. James Hanson
10. Mark Stewart
11. Jack Compton
Substitutes:
12. Nialle Rodney for 10 (67)
13. Jon McLaughlin
14. Andrew Burns for 2 (67)
15. Ross Hannah for 9 (83)
16. Nahki Wells
17. Lee Bullock
18. Scott Brown
19. Patrick Lacey
20. Luke Dean
BOLTON WANDERERS
1. Adam Bodgan
2. Gretar Steinsson (C)
6. Fabrice Muamba
10. Martin Petrov
16. Mark Davies
17. Ivan Klansic
20. Robbie Blake
21. Darren Pratley
25. Marcos Alonso
26. David Wheater
28. Mark Connolly
Substitutes:
4. Paul Robinson
5. Gary Cahill
11. Ricardo Gardner for 16 (59)
12. Zat Knight
13. Rob Lainton
14. Kevin Davies for 20 (74)
30. Tope Obadeyi for 6 (59)
===========================
Peter Jackson felt encouraged by his side's display against Bolton Wanderers this Sunday, with the only frustrating factor of the day for the City boss coming thanks to two late Trotters goals.
On their first appearance at Valley Parade of pre-season, City put up a commendable effort for the majority of the friendly before strikes from internationals Kevin Davies and Ivan Klasnic in the last three minutes put a slightly unfair gloss on the scoreline.
After the final whistle, Jackson couldn't hide his disappointment at seeing his side marginally spoil their day by conceding those goals,but he felt that a lot could be taken out of the game as a whole.
He said: "I was really pleased with the lads' performance - it wasn't a 4-1 game I felt.
"I think the performance was good, the players' fitness was good, I was just disappointed that they score those two late goals at the end.
"I couldn't really ask anymore of them today. They're a young side, they're a keen side, and I felt there were lots of positives to come out of the game despite the two late goals.
"They brought their full side today, so that meant my boys were playing against full Premiership players out there.
"I thought our fitness levels looked good today against a Premiership side. Pre-season is a lot to do with fitness and I felt we looked good in that aspect.
"I lost count with how many corners we had as well.
"I thought we looked good from corners today. We actually looked like scoring from corners, which I didn't think we did last season.
"I felt we could have scored three times from corners in the first half."
Despite the eventual scoreline, there were several promising performances on show for the Bantams against Owen Coyle's men.
After the match, Jackson took the time to praise some of those performers.
He added: "I thought the centre backs looked a bit shaky the last time they got together at Guiseley, but I thought they formed a good partnership today.
"The power of Guy looked good, and Wilo (Steve Williams) probably had his best match game since I came to the club. Hopefully, Guy's experience seems to be rubbing off on him.
"It was also nice to see the wingers get some crosses in.
Hanson also had another good game. I've told him that if he can give the likes of David Wheater a run for his money, like he did today, then he can certainly trouble defenders in our division.
"He has come back from the summer really focused and looking sharp."
After his first-ever Valley Parade goal following his summer move from Nottingham Forest, Jackson also reserved special praise for City's goalscorer Nialle Rodney.
Rodney's well-taken effort was his fourth in total of pre-season and came barely five minutes after he had been introduced as a second half substitute.
Jackson says the strike is an example of what City fans can hopefully expect from the striker in the future.
"It was an excellent goal. Nialle is very capable of doing things like that,"said Jackson.
"He's got talent and he's a player I really believe in.
"He's another we have brought in to bring pace into the team. I was pleased with the pace and effort of players like Nialle when they came on."
In his post-match press briefing, Jackson also confirmed that both Lewis Hunt and Robbie Threlfall weren't selected because they have been told they are now free to find new clubs ahead of the forthcoming campaign.
===========================
From the BBC.
BRADFORD CITY BRING IN NAHKI WELLS
Bradford City manager Peter Jackson has given a one-year contract to striker
Nahki Wells after he impressed while on trial with the club.
The 21-year-old Bermuda international, who was released by Carlisle last
season, has been trying to earn a deal since the start of pre-season
training.
"I believe I have the ability to get in the side and score some goals,"
Wells told BBC Radio Leeds.
"I feel that if I'm given the chance I'll take it."
City manager Peter Jackson said: "He has done really well and has got
potential.
"He is one of the quickest players I have seen. When he has come on in
games, he has changed them. We have got a lot to work with at the moment and
I just thought he was worth a chance until the end of the season.
"One thing we talked about all last season was that we didn't have pace in
the side. If you look at the side now then we have a lot of it in the side,
and that's one thing I wanted to improve and we have improved since the end
of last season."
Wells made three substitute appearances for Carlisle last season without
scoring.
===========================
FULL BACK PAIR SURPLUS TO REQUIREMENTS
By Simon Parker (T&A)
Lewis Hunt and Robbie Threlfall have both been told they have no future with
City.
Peter Jackson is trying to get the two full backs out of Valley Parade to
free up his budget for more signings.
Neither player was in the squad which performed so well in yesterday's 4-1
loss to Bolton and the City boss confirmed: "We've said to them that they
can go if they find a club.
"But it's extremely hard to do that because there are a lot of players out
there.
"It's important that we try to get some out with the budget as tight as it
is. We're looking to maybe bring more in but obviously we've got to get them
out first."
Luke Oliver was also missing as he recovers from injury but he is not on the
manager's exit list.
Jackson said: "Luke's injured at the moment but he doesn't fall into that
bracket."
===========================
ON-TRIAL PAIR LEAVE BRADFORD CITY
From the T&A Sports Desk
City trialists Jack Compton and Mark Howard have both left the club.
Winger Compton impressed in the games against Bradford Park Avenue and
Bolton but has now returned to Falkirk and appears unlikely to be offered a
permanent deal.
Keeper Howard has not been offered terms either, despite appearing in the
last three pre-season games.
Manager Peter Jackson is keen to bring in a shot-stopper to provide Jon
McLaughlin with competition for the No 1 jersey.
===========================
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Friday, July 22, 2011
Match reports...that's about it
Fixtures
Pre-season
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2372524,00.html
Wed 13 July 2011 Silsden AFC A 7.45pm W7-1
Fri 15 July 2011 Matlock Town A 7.45pm D1-1
Tue 19 July 2011 Guiseley A 7.45pm W3-2
Fri 22 July 2011 Bradford (Park Avenue) A 7.45pm
Sun 24 July 2011 Bolton Wanderers H 3.00pm
Sat 30 July 2011 Carlisle United H 3.00pm
Full season
Got adobe PDF reader? See the fixtures here
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/staticFiles/3/7a/0,,10266~162307,00.pdf
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2376580,00.html
===========================
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2382476,00.html
Match tickets for City's Carling Cup 1st round tie against Leeds United are now available on GENERAL SALE to all City supporters.
Peter Jackson's men are due at Elland Road on Tuesday 9 August 2011, kick off 7:45pm.
Tickets for the tie are available to purchase via the Bantams Ticket Office or via the Ticket Office hotline (0871 978 8000). The Bantams Ticket Office will be open from 9:00am this Monday morning.
Every transaction may over the phone will be subject to a £2.00 administration charge.
Admission prices for the tie will be as follows:
Adults: £15.00
Concessions (60 and over): £8.00
Juniors (15 and under): £8.00
The tickets on sale to City supporters at present are for the South Stand at Elland Road.
===========================
Pre-Season Friendly.
At the ASDA Foundation Stadium.
Silsden AFC (0) 1 Bradley 85
Bradford C (4) 7 Rodney 19, Flynn 24, Wells 36, 55, Green 38, Stephenson 51,
Kerr 66
Att: 1,125
BRADFORD CITY XI
1. Jon Brain
2. Andrew Burns
3. Robbie Threlfall
4. Michael Flynn
5. Adam Robinson
6. Luke Oliver (c)
14. Leon Osborne
8. Scott Brown
9. Nialle Rodney
10. Nahki Wells
11. Jamie Green
Substitutes:
12. Danny Kerr for 11 (46)
13. Tim Dittmer
15. Luke Dean for 4 (46)
18. Mole Kes for 2 (46)
16. Darren Stephenson for 9 (46)
17. Patrick Lacey for 8 (46)
7. Dominic Rowe for 10 (74)
===========================
From the Official BCFC Website..
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2393390,00.html?
Pre-Season friendly:
At Causeway Lane, Matlock
Matlock Town (1) 1 Joynes 23
Bradford City (1) 1 Hanson 34
Pre-season really got into gear for the majority of Peter Jackson's squad
this Friday as City drew their second friendly of the summer at Evo-Stik
Premier Division side Matlock Town.
After fielding a largely experimental squad for their opening friendly at
Silsden on Wednesday, Jackson chose Matlock's Causeway Lane as the venue to
introduce most of the more senior member of his ranks.
Summer signings Guy Branston, Chris Mitchell, Ross Hannah - who wore the
skipper's armband for the night against his former club - all featured from
the start, while fellow new boys Mark Stewart and Ritchie Jones received
run-outs from the bench.
Trialist Rhys Evans was given the whole 90 minutes in goal as he tried to
earn himself a third spell with the football club. With Jamie Green missing
out due with a bruised calf, the only other trialist in City's squad for the
night, Nahki Wells, played the final twenty minutes or so.
Green's absence meant Dominic Rowe was another to be given the full match
distance as he worked away all match down the Bantams' left wing.
The quartet of Michael Flynn, Nialle Rodney, Robbie Threlfall and Luke
Oliver all missed out, however, after picking up slight knocks against
Silsden.
Simon Ramsden also didn't feature on the night as City ease him back into
action following his injury nightmare last season. Jackson confirmed after
the match that Ramsden should be in line to play in one of City's three
friendlies next week.
In the match itself, following half chances for James Hanson and David Syers
in the early stages, Matlock took the lead through former Bantam Nathan
Joynes.
Joynes, who featured fleetingly for City during a loan spell from Barnsley
nearly four years ago, found himself in the right place inside City's area
to send Chris Bettney's cross into the far corner with a stooping header.
City were nearly handed an equaliser on a plate minutes later, however, when Matlock defender Lee Feathersome's attempted clearance rattled against his own unknowing 'keeper. Hannah tried to capitalise on the error, but the shot-stopper was able to recover and clear the danger.
The Bantams' leveller did come soon after though when Hanson connected with a Mitchell cross to power a downward header into the bottom corner.
The start of the second period saw Stewart introduced into the action for goalscorer Hanson, and he was quickly involved with proceedings when he narrowly fired wide less than a minute into the half.
The chance wouldn't be Stewart's only effort of the night as the lively Scottish striker looked keen to impress early into his City career.
The second half didn't manage to produce any more goals to add to the scoreline, but it did the watching City fans their first glimpse of this Wednesday's new recruit Jones.
The former Manchester United midfielder looked at ease in his first City outing, and enjoyed one decent effort on goal in particular with a looping volley that bounced narrowly wide.
Jackson brought on development squad members Scott Brown and Andrew Burns, as well as young midfielder Luke Dean, as the half progressed.
With time almost up, It was another substitute who would been at the heart of the game's final chance when Jones found Wells in space behind Matlock's defence with a finely timed pass.
The Bermudan striker had time to pick his spot, but the home 'keeper seemed to read his intentions and guessed right to palm out the powerfully struck effort.
BRADFORD CITY
1. Rhys Evans
2. Lewis Hunt
3. Luke O'Brien
4. Lee Bullock
5. Guy Branston
6. Steve Williams
7. Chris Mitchell
8. David Syers
9. James Hanson
10. Ross Hannah (c)
11. Dominic Rowe
Substitutes:
12. Mark Stewart for 9 (46)
13. Tim Dittmer (GK)
14. Ritchie Jones for 5 (63)
15. Luke Dean for 7 (78)
16. Nahki Wells for 10 (68)
17. Scott Brown for 8 (78)
18. Andrew Burns for 2 (73)
===========================
Overtime pays off for Bradford City players
7:00pm Monday 18th July 2011
By Simon Parker
Peter Jackson has praised the extra factor behind City's pre-season regime.
Jackson increased the schedule to get the squad fitter this year and has been impressed by the results.
City are into their fourth week of training – more than any of their rivals.
But Jackson believes the combination of a long schedule and long days is already paying dividends.
He said: "I'm really pleased with how pre-season has gone so far in terms of the fitness of the first team. The standards have been set in how we want to do things.
"The players have shown a fantastic attitude. They've turned up and had a real go from day one. Last year I felt some of them just went through the motions. That's not happening this year."
Jackson is convinced that spending more time together at the new Woodhouse Grove HQ will create a tight-knit group. He said: "I think being here all the time has brought everyone closer together.
"Some are not getting home until 7.30pm because we are having long sessions. But it's not a punishment. We're here to work, here to get fit and here to progress as a club."
===========================
VP open day pictures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2394396,00.html?
===========================
Pre-season Bradford City forum
3:20pm Friday 15th July 2011
By Simon Parker
Fans will get the chance to quiz City boss Peter Jackson and a couple of his new signings on the eve of the big kick-off.
A pre-season forum is taking place on Wednesday, August 3 in the McCall Suite at Valley Parade.
Jackson will be joined on the panel by Guy Branston and Ross Hannah. Director Roger Owen will also be there alongside Mark Neale, chairman of the Friends of Bradford City who have organised the event.
===========================
From the Official BCFC Website...
Pre-Season Friendly
At Nethermoor Park, Guiseley.
Guiseley AFC (2) 2 Davidson 22, Rothery 29.
Bradford City (1) 3 Syers 27, Stewart 48, Hanson 56.
Peter Jackson's Bantams twice came from behind to pick up their second
victory of pre-season in an entertaining and keenly-fought contest at near
neighbours Guiseley.
For their third friendly of the summer, the Bantams fielded their third
different trialist goalkeeper of pre-season, as Peter Jackson continues to
search long and hard for another shot-stopper to add to his squad.
Following on from Jon Brain at Silsden, and Rhys Evans at Matlock Town,
Former Aberdeen and Arsenal 'keeper Mark Howard was given his own chance
to impress by Jackson at Guiseley.
In front of Howard, City's defence remained largely the same from the back
four that started at Matlock last week.
The only defensive change made by Jackson was at right back, where the
versatile Chris Mitchell - who featured as a right-sided midfielder on
Friday - replaces Lewis Hunt.
Taking Mitchell's place on the right wing is youngster Dominic Rowe, who
collected ninety minutes under his belt on the opposite flank against
Matlock.
Still pushing for a permanent stay at the Coral Windows Stadium, fit again
trialist Jamie Green will occupy Rowe's vacated position on the left wing.
After substitute appearances on Friday, summer signings Mark Stewart and
Ritchie Jones are also given starting berths at Nethermoor Park.
Former Guiseley striker James Hanson returns to one of his old stomping
grounds to partner Stewart up front. The giant striker has also been made
skipper for the match.
Michael Flynn and Nialle Rodney return to the bench after missing out on the
Matlock fixture, while the pair are joined among the substitutes by the
likes of Ross Hannah and trialist Nahki Wells.
Guiseley's squad for the evening contained as many as five former Bantams
- Luke Sharry, Danny Forrest, Simon Ainge and Mark Bower, plus ex-apprentice
Danny Ellis.
BRADFORD CITY
1. Mark Howard
2. Chris Mitchell
3. Luke O'Brien
4. Ritchie Jones
5. Guy Branston
6. Steve Williams
7. Dominic Rowe
8. David Syers
9. James Hanson (c)
10. Mark Stewart
11. Jamie Green
Substitutes:
12. Ross Hannah for 10 (73)
13. Tim Dittmer
14. Michael Flynn for 8 (46)
15. Nialle Rodney for 9 (73)
16. Nahki Wells for 11 (80)
17. Scott Brown
18. Andrew Burns for 4 (65)
19. Lee Bullock for 6 (78)
===========================
From the Official BCFC Website.
LEAGUE SUBS REDUCED FROM 7 TO 5
Football League clubs have voted to reduce the number of substitutes that
can be named on the team-sheet for matches in the npower Football League
from 7 to 5.
The vote was taken at an EGM at Leicester City's King Power Stadium.
A Football League spokesman said: "This was felt to be a sensible and
prudent step given the financial challenges facing many football clubs and
the commitment made earlier this summer to adopt UEFA's Financial Fair Play
framework."
Clubs will still be permitted to name 7 substitutes in the Carling Cup and
FA Cup and 5 in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy.
===========================
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/9155831./
Bantams unveil new youth team manager
1:27pm Friday 22nd July 2011
The former head of Rotherham United's youth set-up, Steve Thornber, has been appointed as the Bantams' new youth team manager.
The 45-year-old replaces David Wetherall, who left City last month to take up a position within the Football League.
Thornber, who is based in Halifax, was involved in coaching Rotherham's apprentices for eight years before leaving the Don Valley Stadium at the end of last season.
He also enjoyed a brief spell in caretaker charge of the Millers' first team in September 2009 following the departure of then-manager Mark Robins.
During his playing days, the former midfielder featured for the likes of Swansea City, Blackpool and Scunthorpe United in a 15-year spell as a footballer.
"I was interested in this position as soon as I knew it was available," said Thornber.
"I went to school in Bradford and I am based roughly from around this area, so I know all about the size of this club.
"The training facilties and the development squad that is in place here were all selling points for me."
Thornber's introduction into the coaching set-up at Valley Parade will see centre of excellence assistant manager Alan Nevision promoted up to manager, while Peter Horne – the former centre of excellence manager – will start his new role as head of youth operations.
One of Horne's main duties in the newly-created role will be to ensure a controlled balance over both the youth team and the centre of excellence.
Horne, who had a large say in Thornber's appointment, explained: "Having a seperate head of the youth department was something myself and David (Wetherall) were talking about last season.
"The whole point of a youth team manager is for them to get out on the pitch to help develop and progress young players on their way to, hopefully, becoming professionals.
"It's hard for any manager to do that when they have countless other issues to sort out as well, such as various bits of paperwork, legalisations and regulations.
"We felt it best to remove all the other issues that come from within the youth department, so that our new youth manager can simply coach.
"As soon as we announced that David was leaving, we have a far number of applications for the position.
"People will be surprised by some of the names that applied for the position but I felt sure Steve was the right man for the job as soon as his name cropped up.
"He did an excellent job at Rotherham and has good experience of working within restricted budgets."
===========================
Pre-season
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2372524,00.html
Wed 13 July 2011 Silsden AFC A 7.45pm W7-1
Fri 15 July 2011 Matlock Town A 7.45pm D1-1
Tue 19 July 2011 Guiseley A 7.45pm W3-2
Fri 22 July 2011 Bradford (Park Avenue) A 7.45pm
Sun 24 July 2011 Bolton Wanderers H 3.00pm
Sat 30 July 2011 Carlisle United H 3.00pm
Full season
Got adobe PDF reader? See the fixtures here
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/staticFiles/3/7a/0,,10266~162307,00.pdf
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2376580,00.html
===========================
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2382476,00.html
Match tickets for City's Carling Cup 1st round tie against Leeds United are now available on GENERAL SALE to all City supporters.
Peter Jackson's men are due at Elland Road on Tuesday 9 August 2011, kick off 7:45pm.
Tickets for the tie are available to purchase via the Bantams Ticket Office or via the Ticket Office hotline (0871 978 8000). The Bantams Ticket Office will be open from 9:00am this Monday morning.
Every transaction may over the phone will be subject to a £2.00 administration charge.
Admission prices for the tie will be as follows:
Adults: £15.00
Concessions (60 and over): £8.00
Juniors (15 and under): £8.00
The tickets on sale to City supporters at present are for the South Stand at Elland Road.
===========================
Pre-Season Friendly.
At the ASDA Foundation Stadium.
Silsden AFC (0) 1 Bradley 85
Bradford C (4) 7 Rodney 19, Flynn 24, Wells 36, 55, Green 38, Stephenson 51,
Kerr 66
Att: 1,125
BRADFORD CITY XI
1. Jon Brain
2. Andrew Burns
3. Robbie Threlfall
4. Michael Flynn
5. Adam Robinson
6. Luke Oliver (c)
14. Leon Osborne
8. Scott Brown
9. Nialle Rodney
10. Nahki Wells
11. Jamie Green
Substitutes:
12. Danny Kerr for 11 (46)
13. Tim Dittmer
15. Luke Dean for 4 (46)
18. Mole Kes for 2 (46)
16. Darren Stephenson for 9 (46)
17. Patrick Lacey for 8 (46)
7. Dominic Rowe for 10 (74)
===========================
From the Official BCFC Website..
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2393390,00.html?
Pre-Season friendly:
At Causeway Lane, Matlock
Matlock Town (1) 1 Joynes 23
Bradford City (1) 1 Hanson 34
Pre-season really got into gear for the majority of Peter Jackson's squad
this Friday as City drew their second friendly of the summer at Evo-Stik
Premier Division side Matlock Town.
After fielding a largely experimental squad for their opening friendly at
Silsden on Wednesday, Jackson chose Matlock's Causeway Lane as the venue to
introduce most of the more senior member of his ranks.
Summer signings Guy Branston, Chris Mitchell, Ross Hannah - who wore the
skipper's armband for the night against his former club - all featured from
the start, while fellow new boys Mark Stewart and Ritchie Jones received
run-outs from the bench.
Trialist Rhys Evans was given the whole 90 minutes in goal as he tried to
earn himself a third spell with the football club. With Jamie Green missing
out due with a bruised calf, the only other trialist in City's squad for the
night, Nahki Wells, played the final twenty minutes or so.
Green's absence meant Dominic Rowe was another to be given the full match
distance as he worked away all match down the Bantams' left wing.
The quartet of Michael Flynn, Nialle Rodney, Robbie Threlfall and Luke
Oliver all missed out, however, after picking up slight knocks against
Silsden.
Simon Ramsden also didn't feature on the night as City ease him back into
action following his injury nightmare last season. Jackson confirmed after
the match that Ramsden should be in line to play in one of City's three
friendlies next week.
In the match itself, following half chances for James Hanson and David Syers
in the early stages, Matlock took the lead through former Bantam Nathan
Joynes.
Joynes, who featured fleetingly for City during a loan spell from Barnsley
nearly four years ago, found himself in the right place inside City's area
to send Chris Bettney's cross into the far corner with a stooping header.
City were nearly handed an equaliser on a plate minutes later, however, when Matlock defender Lee Feathersome's attempted clearance rattled against his own unknowing 'keeper. Hannah tried to capitalise on the error, but the shot-stopper was able to recover and clear the danger.
The Bantams' leveller did come soon after though when Hanson connected with a Mitchell cross to power a downward header into the bottom corner.
The start of the second period saw Stewart introduced into the action for goalscorer Hanson, and he was quickly involved with proceedings when he narrowly fired wide less than a minute into the half.
The chance wouldn't be Stewart's only effort of the night as the lively Scottish striker looked keen to impress early into his City career.
The second half didn't manage to produce any more goals to add to the scoreline, but it did the watching City fans their first glimpse of this Wednesday's new recruit Jones.
The former Manchester United midfielder looked at ease in his first City outing, and enjoyed one decent effort on goal in particular with a looping volley that bounced narrowly wide.
Jackson brought on development squad members Scott Brown and Andrew Burns, as well as young midfielder Luke Dean, as the half progressed.
With time almost up, It was another substitute who would been at the heart of the game's final chance when Jones found Wells in space behind Matlock's defence with a finely timed pass.
The Bermudan striker had time to pick his spot, but the home 'keeper seemed to read his intentions and guessed right to palm out the powerfully struck effort.
BRADFORD CITY
1. Rhys Evans
2. Lewis Hunt
3. Luke O'Brien
4. Lee Bullock
5. Guy Branston
6. Steve Williams
7. Chris Mitchell
8. David Syers
9. James Hanson
10. Ross Hannah (c)
11. Dominic Rowe
Substitutes:
12. Mark Stewart for 9 (46)
13. Tim Dittmer (GK)
14. Ritchie Jones for 5 (63)
15. Luke Dean for 7 (78)
16. Nahki Wells for 10 (68)
17. Scott Brown for 8 (78)
18. Andrew Burns for 2 (73)
===========================
Overtime pays off for Bradford City players
7:00pm Monday 18th July 2011
By Simon Parker
Peter Jackson has praised the extra factor behind City's pre-season regime.
Jackson increased the schedule to get the squad fitter this year and has been impressed by the results.
City are into their fourth week of training – more than any of their rivals.
But Jackson believes the combination of a long schedule and long days is already paying dividends.
He said: "I'm really pleased with how pre-season has gone so far in terms of the fitness of the first team. The standards have been set in how we want to do things.
"The players have shown a fantastic attitude. They've turned up and had a real go from day one. Last year I felt some of them just went through the motions. That's not happening this year."
Jackson is convinced that spending more time together at the new Woodhouse Grove HQ will create a tight-knit group. He said: "I think being here all the time has brought everyone closer together.
"Some are not getting home until 7.30pm because we are having long sessions. But it's not a punishment. We're here to work, here to get fit and here to progress as a club."
===========================
VP open day pictures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2394396,00.html?
===========================
Pre-season Bradford City forum
3:20pm Friday 15th July 2011
By Simon Parker
Fans will get the chance to quiz City boss Peter Jackson and a couple of his new signings on the eve of the big kick-off.
A pre-season forum is taking place on Wednesday, August 3 in the McCall Suite at Valley Parade.
Jackson will be joined on the panel by Guy Branston and Ross Hannah. Director Roger Owen will also be there alongside Mark Neale, chairman of the Friends of Bradford City who have organised the event.
===========================
From the Official BCFC Website...
Pre-Season Friendly
At Nethermoor Park, Guiseley.
Guiseley AFC (2) 2 Davidson 22, Rothery 29.
Bradford City (1) 3 Syers 27, Stewart 48, Hanson 56.
Peter Jackson's Bantams twice came from behind to pick up their second
victory of pre-season in an entertaining and keenly-fought contest at near
neighbours Guiseley.
For their third friendly of the summer, the Bantams fielded their third
different trialist goalkeeper of pre-season, as Peter Jackson continues to
search long and hard for another shot-stopper to add to his squad.
Following on from Jon Brain at Silsden, and Rhys Evans at Matlock Town,
Former Aberdeen and Arsenal 'keeper Mark Howard was given his own chance
to impress by Jackson at Guiseley.
In front of Howard, City's defence remained largely the same from the back
four that started at Matlock last week.
The only defensive change made by Jackson was at right back, where the
versatile Chris Mitchell - who featured as a right-sided midfielder on
Friday - replaces Lewis Hunt.
Taking Mitchell's place on the right wing is youngster Dominic Rowe, who
collected ninety minutes under his belt on the opposite flank against
Matlock.
Still pushing for a permanent stay at the Coral Windows Stadium, fit again
trialist Jamie Green will occupy Rowe's vacated position on the left wing.
After substitute appearances on Friday, summer signings Mark Stewart and
Ritchie Jones are also given starting berths at Nethermoor Park.
Former Guiseley striker James Hanson returns to one of his old stomping
grounds to partner Stewart up front. The giant striker has also been made
skipper for the match.
Michael Flynn and Nialle Rodney return to the bench after missing out on the
Matlock fixture, while the pair are joined among the substitutes by the
likes of Ross Hannah and trialist Nahki Wells.
Guiseley's squad for the evening contained as many as five former Bantams
- Luke Sharry, Danny Forrest, Simon Ainge and Mark Bower, plus ex-apprentice
Danny Ellis.
BRADFORD CITY
1. Mark Howard
2. Chris Mitchell
3. Luke O'Brien
4. Ritchie Jones
5. Guy Branston
6. Steve Williams
7. Dominic Rowe
8. David Syers
9. James Hanson (c)
10. Mark Stewart
11. Jamie Green
Substitutes:
12. Ross Hannah for 10 (73)
13. Tim Dittmer
14. Michael Flynn for 8 (46)
15. Nialle Rodney for 9 (73)
16. Nahki Wells for 11 (80)
17. Scott Brown
18. Andrew Burns for 4 (65)
19. Lee Bullock for 6 (78)
===========================
From the Official BCFC Website.
LEAGUE SUBS REDUCED FROM 7 TO 5
Football League clubs have voted to reduce the number of substitutes that
can be named on the team-sheet for matches in the npower Football League
from 7 to 5.
The vote was taken at an EGM at Leicester City's King Power Stadium.
A Football League spokesman said: "This was felt to be a sensible and
prudent step given the financial challenges facing many football clubs and
the commitment made earlier this summer to adopt UEFA's Financial Fair Play
framework."
Clubs will still be permitted to name 7 substitutes in the Carling Cup and
FA Cup and 5 in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy.
===========================
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/9155831./
Bantams unveil new youth team manager
1:27pm Friday 22nd July 2011
The former head of Rotherham United's youth set-up, Steve Thornber, has been appointed as the Bantams' new youth team manager.
The 45-year-old replaces David Wetherall, who left City last month to take up a position within the Football League.
Thornber, who is based in Halifax, was involved in coaching Rotherham's apprentices for eight years before leaving the Don Valley Stadium at the end of last season.
He also enjoyed a brief spell in caretaker charge of the Millers' first team in September 2009 following the departure of then-manager Mark Robins.
During his playing days, the former midfielder featured for the likes of Swansea City, Blackpool and Scunthorpe United in a 15-year spell as a footballer.
"I was interested in this position as soon as I knew it was available," said Thornber.
"I went to school in Bradford and I am based roughly from around this area, so I know all about the size of this club.
"The training facilties and the development squad that is in place here were all selling points for me."
Thornber's introduction into the coaching set-up at Valley Parade will see centre of excellence assistant manager Alan Nevision promoted up to manager, while Peter Horne – the former centre of excellence manager – will start his new role as head of youth operations.
One of Horne's main duties in the newly-created role will be to ensure a controlled balance over both the youth team and the centre of excellence.
Horne, who had a large say in Thornber's appointment, explained: "Having a seperate head of the youth department was something myself and David (Wetherall) were talking about last season.
"The whole point of a youth team manager is for them to get out on the pitch to help develop and progress young players on their way to, hopefully, becoming professionals.
"It's hard for any manager to do that when they have countless other issues to sort out as well, such as various bits of paperwork, legalisations and regulations.
"We felt it best to remove all the other issues that come from within the youth department, so that our new youth manager can simply coach.
"As soon as we announced that David was leaving, we have a far number of applications for the position.
"People will be surprised by some of the names that applied for the position but I felt sure Steve was the right man for the job as soon as his name cropped up.
"He did an excellent job at Rotherham and has good experience of working within restricted budgets."
===========================
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
New Hull fixture / Player updates / VP open day
Fixtures
Pre-season
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2372524,00.html
Wed 13 July 2011 Silsden AFC A 7.45pm
Fri 15 July 2011 Matlock Town A 7.45pm
Tue 19 July 2011 Guiseley A 7.45pm
Fri 22 July 2011 Bradford (Park Avenue) A 7.45pm
Sun 24 July 2011 Bolton Wanderers H 3.00pm
*** NEW *** Wed 27 July 2011 Hull A 7.45pm
Sat 30 July 2011 Carlisle United H 3.00pm
Full season
Got adobe PDF reader? See the fixtures here
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/staticFiles/3/7a/0,,10266~162307,00.pdf
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2376580,00.html
===========================
VALLEY PARADE OPEN DAY
By Simon Parker (T&A)
Bradford City will throw open the Valley Parade doors on Saturday (July 16)
to mark the end of the season-ticket deal.
Supporters can watch a training session on the pitch – and even enjoy a free
burger cooked by Mark Lawn.
The joint-chairman will be on barbeque duty in the dug-outs and the first
500 will be free.
Valley Parade will open at 11.30am with the first team training from midday.
The 1911 Club will be available for drinks from 11am. Fans who have
pre-ordered the new home kit by July 14 can also collect it from there.
Supporters can also come down to pitch-side after the training session for
the chance to mingle with the players.
Director of operations David Baldwin said: "It's a chance for fans to get
closer to the team."
Saturday's event will run until 3pm when the £195 season-ticket offer
officially ends.
==========================
Bradford City's chief scout Archie Christie has appointed Wayne Allison as a development coach, as the Bantams look to build a team capable of challenging for honours in the future.
The idea is to further City's development of young players, rather than react to holes in the first-team by dipping into the transfer window. But Christie's new plan will take time, Allison warned.
"It's not a two-month thing," he said. "There is a plan and it's over a course of years.
"Now, rather than making decisions on players there and then, you can work with them and develop them for another two or three years."
Allison believes that the new scheme will allow City to sign more talented young players and continue to develop them throughout their career.
For the Bantams, the hope is that it creates a platform to build an entire generation of players capable of pushing for promotion, year after year.
"It's a totally different approach. You are developing a player and hopefully priming him for a successful and long career," Allison added.
"For me, it's a big job and a very interesting one. I see this set-up as being very progressive with Archie and the rest of the staff. We've also increased the number of scouts, which is fantastic because we can recruit the better type of players.
"We're putting down an infrastructure with the development squad which is very sustainable. When we get to the Championship and hopefully beyond, everything is then in place."
Allison's appointment won't be the first time he's worked with manager Peter Jackson.
When Jackson was in charge of Huddersfield Town, he bough Allison from Swindon for £800,000. And Allison is eager for the opportunity to work under Jackson again.
He explained: "He's great to be around the place and his enthusiasm is infectious. You want to play for him.
"I wanted to play for him, now I want to work for him."
===========================
Rodney can make a name for himself at Bradford City
6:30am Tuesday 12th July 2011
By Simon Parker
Nialle Rodney wants to make a name for himself at City after turning down League One football.
The 20-year-old striker signed a one-year deal despite rival interest from Notts County.
Rodney, released by Forest at the end of last season, spent a week on trial at Meadow Lane before deciding the Bantams were the right club for him.
He said: "It was a massive decision for me and I had to weigh up all my options. I need to play games now.
"Speaking to the manager and Colin Cooper made it a lot easier. They've got a lot of passion and desire for this club and we want the same things.
"The gaffer called me a lot; he kept ringing in my ear! But that's what I wanted.
"He's told me that if I apply myself in the right way then I'll get games and he'll give me a chance. He's building a good little team here and I want to be part of it."
Rodney, who played for City's development squad in yesterday's 5-0 win over Notre Dame College from Leeds, had a brief taste of League Two on loan at Burton.
"It was a bit of an eye-opener but unfortunately I got injured while I was there. But I know what to expect.
"I was really shocked to leave Forest because all season I was told it was looking really promising. I was happy at Nottingham but you know football politics.
"But now I'm very excited to be here and I'm ready to make a name for myself."
Peter Jackson has been tracking Rodney - his seventh signing - since the end of last term and had feared he might have lost him when the youngster moved back to County.
The City chief said: "He has attracted interest from other clubs but has been really impressed with what he's seen here.
"Nialle has got blistering pace and that's what we need from our front players. We didn't have enough of that last season.
"I'm expecting a lot from him. The kid has got potential and it's up to Colin and I to get that out of him.
"I don't want players coming here just to pick up the money. I want ones like Nialle who are desperate to play for us and see this as a massive challenge."
===========================
Jacko makes it six
Last Updated: Fri, 08 Jul 2011 13:07
Bradford manager Peter Jackson has added a sixth summer signing to his squad with the capture of former Sheffield Wednesday midfielder Patrick Lacey.
Lacey, 18, released by Wednesday at the end of last season, has signed a one-year contract at Valley Parade.Jackson, who signed another teenager, Scott Brown, 24 hours earlier, said: "I've always said that we've needed a younger side and hopefully players like Paddy will be our future."We think a lot about him and myself and the coaching staff think Sheffield Wednesday have made a bit of a mistake letting him go."He had offers to come to other clubs, but was with us for a few days last season - he seemed to enjoy it - and I think that swayed it in our favour."He's come back here for pre-season with the rest of the lads this summer and we still like what he's offering as a player."
===========================
From the Official BCFC Website…
RITCHIE JONES JOINS CITY
The Bantams have managed to bolster their midfield ranks today by securing
the signature of former Manchester United midfielder Ritchie Jones on a free
transfer.
Jones arrived at the Coral Windows Stadium this Wednesday evening to put pen
to paper on a two year contract with City. Jones' deal also includes the
option for it to be extended by a further two seasons.
The 24 year old will wear squad number 8 for the forthcoming 2011/2012
campaign.
The hard-working midfielder appeared in 33 matches for League 1 side Oldham
Athletic last season.
He started his professional career at Old Trafford after joining the Red
Devils as a nine year old, and captained United's Youth Team after
progressing through the relevant age groups.
Jones also played a major part in a successful Manchester United Reserve
side that secured seven trophies in two seasons between 2004 and 2006.
City's latest signing featured in five first team appearances for the Red
Devils during his with the club, while also enjoying loan spells with Royal
Antwerp, Colchester United, Barnsley and Yeovil Town.
After eventually leaving Manchester United at the end of the 2007/08 season,
Jones moved north to join up with Hartlepool United.
Jones enjoyed two productive seasons - and 69 appearances - during his time
at Victoria Park before his moving to Oldham last summer.
As well as a creditable domestic playing career, Jones has also been capped
at Under 16, 17, 18, 19 and 20 level for England.
===========================
Pre-season
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2372524,00.html
Wed 13 July 2011 Silsden AFC A 7.45pm
Fri 15 July 2011 Matlock Town A 7.45pm
Tue 19 July 2011 Guiseley A 7.45pm
Fri 22 July 2011 Bradford (Park Avenue) A 7.45pm
Sun 24 July 2011 Bolton Wanderers H 3.00pm
*** NEW *** Wed 27 July 2011 Hull A 7.45pm
Sat 30 July 2011 Carlisle United H 3.00pm
Full season
Got adobe PDF reader? See the fixtures here
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/staticFiles/3/7a/0,,10266~162307,00.pdf
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2376580,00.html
===========================
VALLEY PARADE OPEN DAY
By Simon Parker (T&A)
Bradford City will throw open the Valley Parade doors on Saturday (July 16)
to mark the end of the season-ticket deal.
Supporters can watch a training session on the pitch – and even enjoy a free
burger cooked by Mark Lawn.
The joint-chairman will be on barbeque duty in the dug-outs and the first
500 will be free.
Valley Parade will open at 11.30am with the first team training from midday.
The 1911 Club will be available for drinks from 11am. Fans who have
pre-ordered the new home kit by July 14 can also collect it from there.
Supporters can also come down to pitch-side after the training session for
the chance to mingle with the players.
Director of operations David Baldwin said: "It's a chance for fans to get
closer to the team."
Saturday's event will run until 3pm when the £195 season-ticket offer
officially ends.
==========================
Bradford City's chief scout Archie Christie has appointed Wayne Allison as a development coach, as the Bantams look to build a team capable of challenging for honours in the future.
The idea is to further City's development of young players, rather than react to holes in the first-team by dipping into the transfer window. But Christie's new plan will take time, Allison warned.
"It's not a two-month thing," he said. "There is a plan and it's over a course of years.
"Now, rather than making decisions on players there and then, you can work with them and develop them for another two or three years."
Allison believes that the new scheme will allow City to sign more talented young players and continue to develop them throughout their career.
For the Bantams, the hope is that it creates a platform to build an entire generation of players capable of pushing for promotion, year after year.
"It's a totally different approach. You are developing a player and hopefully priming him for a successful and long career," Allison added.
"For me, it's a big job and a very interesting one. I see this set-up as being very progressive with Archie and the rest of the staff. We've also increased the number of scouts, which is fantastic because we can recruit the better type of players.
"We're putting down an infrastructure with the development squad which is very sustainable. When we get to the Championship and hopefully beyond, everything is then in place."
Allison's appointment won't be the first time he's worked with manager Peter Jackson.
When Jackson was in charge of Huddersfield Town, he bough Allison from Swindon for £800,000. And Allison is eager for the opportunity to work under Jackson again.
He explained: "He's great to be around the place and his enthusiasm is infectious. You want to play for him.
"I wanted to play for him, now I want to work for him."
===========================
Rodney can make a name for himself at Bradford City
6:30am Tuesday 12th July 2011
By Simon Parker
Nialle Rodney wants to make a name for himself at City after turning down League One football.
The 20-year-old striker signed a one-year deal despite rival interest from Notts County.
Rodney, released by Forest at the end of last season, spent a week on trial at Meadow Lane before deciding the Bantams were the right club for him.
He said: "It was a massive decision for me and I had to weigh up all my options. I need to play games now.
"Speaking to the manager and Colin Cooper made it a lot easier. They've got a lot of passion and desire for this club and we want the same things.
"The gaffer called me a lot; he kept ringing in my ear! But that's what I wanted.
"He's told me that if I apply myself in the right way then I'll get games and he'll give me a chance. He's building a good little team here and I want to be part of it."
Rodney, who played for City's development squad in yesterday's 5-0 win over Notre Dame College from Leeds, had a brief taste of League Two on loan at Burton.
"It was a bit of an eye-opener but unfortunately I got injured while I was there. But I know what to expect.
"I was really shocked to leave Forest because all season I was told it was looking really promising. I was happy at Nottingham but you know football politics.
"But now I'm very excited to be here and I'm ready to make a name for myself."
Peter Jackson has been tracking Rodney - his seventh signing - since the end of last term and had feared he might have lost him when the youngster moved back to County.
The City chief said: "He has attracted interest from other clubs but has been really impressed with what he's seen here.
"Nialle has got blistering pace and that's what we need from our front players. We didn't have enough of that last season.
"I'm expecting a lot from him. The kid has got potential and it's up to Colin and I to get that out of him.
"I don't want players coming here just to pick up the money. I want ones like Nialle who are desperate to play for us and see this as a massive challenge."
===========================
Jacko makes it six
Last Updated: Fri, 08 Jul 2011 13:07
Bradford manager Peter Jackson has added a sixth summer signing to his squad with the capture of former Sheffield Wednesday midfielder Patrick Lacey.
Lacey, 18, released by Wednesday at the end of last season, has signed a one-year contract at Valley Parade.Jackson, who signed another teenager, Scott Brown, 24 hours earlier, said: "I've always said that we've needed a younger side and hopefully players like Paddy will be our future."We think a lot about him and myself and the coaching staff think Sheffield Wednesday have made a bit of a mistake letting him go."He had offers to come to other clubs, but was with us for a few days last season - he seemed to enjoy it - and I think that swayed it in our favour."He's come back here for pre-season with the rest of the lads this summer and we still like what he's offering as a player."
===========================
From the Official BCFC Website…
RITCHIE JONES JOINS CITY
The Bantams have managed to bolster their midfield ranks today by securing
the signature of former Manchester United midfielder Ritchie Jones on a free
transfer.
Jones arrived at the Coral Windows Stadium this Wednesday evening to put pen
to paper on a two year contract with City. Jones' deal also includes the
option for it to be extended by a further two seasons.
The 24 year old will wear squad number 8 for the forthcoming 2011/2012
campaign.
The hard-working midfielder appeared in 33 matches for League 1 side Oldham
Athletic last season.
He started his professional career at Old Trafford after joining the Red
Devils as a nine year old, and captained United's Youth Team after
progressing through the relevant age groups.
Jones also played a major part in a successful Manchester United Reserve
side that secured seven trophies in two seasons between 2004 and 2006.
City's latest signing featured in five first team appearances for the Red
Devils during his with the club, while also enjoying loan spells with Royal
Antwerp, Colchester United, Barnsley and Yeovil Town.
After eventually leaving Manchester United at the end of the 2007/08 season,
Jones moved north to join up with Hartlepool United.
Jones enjoyed two productive seasons - and 69 appearances - during his time
at Victoria Park before his moving to Oldham last summer.
As well as a creditable domestic playing career, Jones has also been capped
at Under 16, 17, 18, 19 and 20 level for England.
===========================
Wednesday, July 06, 2011
New kit / Weatherall leaves /
Fixtures
Pre-season
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2372524,00.html
Wed 13 July 2011 Silsden AFC A 7.45pm
Fri 15 July 2011 Matlock Town A 7.45pm
Tue 19 July 2011 Guiseley A 7.45pm
Fri 22 July 2011 Bradford (Park Avenue) A 7.45pm
Sun 24 July 2011 Bolton Wanderers H 3.00pm
Sat 30 July 2011 Carlisle United H 3.00pm
Full season
Got adobe PDF reader? See the fixtures here
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/staticFiles/3/7a/0,,10266~162307,00.pdf
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2376580,00.html
===========================
New kit
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/ClubShop/0,,10266~2385335,00.html
===========================
DAVID WETHERALL LEAVES CITY FOR TOP JOB WITH FOOTBALL LEAGUE
By Simon Parker (T&A)
David Wetherall is ending a 12-year era at City after accepting a new job
with the Football League.
Wetherall has been appointed the league's head of youth development and will
take up the post at their Preston headquarters next month.
The 40-year-old joined the Bantams for £1.4m from Leeds in June 1999 ahead
of the club's first season in the Premier League.
He made 330 appearances at centre half for City, despite suffering a couple
of serious injuries, before hanging up his boots in May 2008. He scored 21
goals - including the famous header against Liverpool which ensured the club
stayed up in the top flight.
Wetherall had a spell as caretaker manager while still playing, reluctantly
taking the reins when Colin Todd was sacked in February 2007. But he was
unable to prevent the club from relegation to the bottom division.
He has run the youth team for the past two seasons, flourishing in the role,
before earning the chance to work for the league.
Wetherall said: "It was a difficult decision to leave because I've developed
a great affinity for the place.
"But this is a top job in youth development football. These opportunities
don't come along very often and it is something I couldn't afford to turn
down."
---
It was an offer I couldn't refuse, says Bradford City hero David Wetherall
7:40am Thursday 23rd June 2011
By Simon Parker
David Wetherall today looked towards life beyond Bradford City and admitted: It's going to be strange.
Wetherall is leaving Valley Parade to take up a prestige post as the Football League's head of youth development.
It will end a 12-year spell with the Bantams as captain and centre half, caretaker manager and assistant, first-team coach and – for the last two years – boss of the youth department.
The 40-year-old is excited by the prospect of helping to improve the level of young talent around the country.
But it is still a huge wrench to quit the club he served with distinction on and off the field.
Wetherall said: "Despite this being such a great opportunity, part of me has a certain sadness about it. It's the end of a big chapter in my life. It will be strange not driving into Bradford anymore.
"I've built up a great affinity with the club over the years and that won't change. But an opportunity like this one does not come around often."
===========================
From the BBC...
BRADFORD CITY SCOUT ARCHIE CHRISTIE EYES CHAMPIONSHIP
Bradford City's new chief scout believes the club will be playing in the
Championship within five seasons.
Archie Christie arrived at Valley Parade on Tuesday after a successful spell
with Dagenham & Redbridge.
He told BBC Radio Leeds: "My target is that in four to five years time we'll
be in the Championship.
"I believe over the next two years we'll have a promotion, and I believe two
years after that we'll have another promotion," he added.
"It'll be with a squad that we've developed over four or five years without
spending any money. It'll take us into the Championship and then we can
compete on a level playing field at our level.
"We're a Championship club at the moment playing in League Two."
The recruitment process will see four scouts employed by the club to bring
in new talent.
"We've quality scouts who know what we're looking for," said Christie.
"One scout is ex-Celtic, one is ex-Arsenal. We're not looking for players
for the youth team because Peter Horne has done a stunning and magnificent
job.
"There is a gap between the first team and the youth team, and we're going
to fill that gap.
"We're going to bring in six to eight players who will be part of a
development team that is under my own budget."
And Christie revealed he had already made moves to bring in players.
"I've already signed a 17-year old international who's coming on 1 July," he
said
"I've signed an under-19 international who's coming on 1 July, and I've got
two others coming who are not good enough for the Premiership, but if we
develop them, we'll then take them on."
===========================
From the Official BCFC Website…
LEEDS TICKET PRICES AGREED
Ticket prices for City's Carling Cup 1st round tie at Elland Road have now
been agreed by the football club and Leeds United.
Match tickets for the tie - set to take place on Tuesday 9 August 2011 -
will cost £15.00 for adults and £8.00 for concessions.
Concessions at Elland Road will be deemed as juniors under 16 and senior
citizens 60 and over.
City fans will be allocated the whole of the South Stand at Elland Road with
the option to also use the South East corner if needed.
The official website will be in a position to supply further information,
such as the first date of ticket sales, in due course.
===========================
The football club are now in a position to release the admission details for City's two home pre-season friendlies this summer against Bolton Wanderers and Carlisle United.
City are due to host matches against the Premier League and League 1 outfits on Sunday 24 July and Saturday 30 July respectively.
Entry into either one of these fixtures will cost £10.00 for adults and £5.00 for concessions.
There will also be no advance sales for either match - supporters are therefore asked to pay on the turnstiles.
City supporters will have access to the Co-operative Main Stand on an unreserved basis for both matches.
Bolton Wanderers and Carlisle United supporters will be allocated the Betrescue Stand, equally on an unreserved basis.
===========================
From the YP
Bantams in 'positive' takeover talks with Parkin
Published on Wednesday 22 June 2011 03:26
BRADFORD CITY joint chairman Julian Rhodes has confirmed fresh talks have taken place with millionaire businessman Steve Parkin over his attempts to buy the club.
As exclusively revealed in yesterday's Yorkshire Post, the chief executive of Brighouse-based Clipper Group wants to purchase the Bantams as part of his grand vision to set up a Bradford Sporting Club that would include both the city's senior football and rugby league teams.
Parkin met both Rhodes and fellow joint chairman Mark Lawn at Valley Parade yesterday afternoon in an attempt to move the deal along.
Rhodes confirmed last night: "We have had a meeting with Steve and those talks are on-going. It was a positive meeting that saw a whole host of issues discussed.
"Steve has now gone away and is going to get back to us in the next few days. What we all want is the best for Bradford City. Steve is someone who sees the potential that exists at Bradford City and we all want what is best for the club."
It is understood that, along with Parkin's intention to buy out the existing shareholders, a possible joint venture was also suggested by Lawn and Rhodes that would see all three men work together to drive City forward.
As part of the proposal put forward by City's joint chairmen, Parkin would invest in the Bantams to purchase a third of the shareholding in the League Two club.
This would appear to fly in the face of Parkin's original intention of taking overall control and then installing his own hand-picked management team to run the Bantams on a day-to-day basis.
His grand plan for Bradford sport, which was revealed in this newspaper at the start of last week, would see a similar set-up installed at the Bulls.
The two clubs would also be housed in one stadium with the eventual plan being to build a purpose-built stadium in the city for them both to share.
Rhodes has been on the Valley Parade board since the late Nineties along with his father, Professor David Rhodes, while Lawn joined in 2007. The three men recently bought the office block that stands next to City's home to ease what was, at the time, a crippling rent bill
===========================
JONES, GRIMES ELUDE CITY
Rochdale midfielder Gary Jones and Millwall striker Ashley Grimes have both eluded Peter Jackson's attempts to bring them to Valley Parade next season. Clayton Donaldson has said he will not play at League 2 level.
As "Boy from Brazil" states "...the City boss seems to be moving onto his Plan B list".
===========================
From the Official BCFC Website...
SCOTTISH DUO JOIN THE BANTAMS
City have today (Friday) managed to double their purchases for the summer by
completing deals to bring Scottish duo Mark Stewart and Chris Mitchell to
Valley Parade.
The pair, who both featured for Scottish First Division side Falkirk last
season, become City's third and fourth signings of the summer following the
arrivals of Guy Branston and Ross Hannah earlier in the close season.
Striker Stewart, 23, arrives at the Coral Windows Stadium after finishing
last season as Falkirk's top scorer - a feat which also left him as one of
the top scorers in the whole division in the process.
Stewart is known to be comfortable playing in several different
attacking positions including as a winger or a central striker, and has
penned a two year contract with the Bantams.
The arrival of defender Mitchell should add some extra depth to the Bantams'
squad as the Stirling-born full back is familiar playing as either a right
or left back.
Mitchell can also feature as a right winger or central midfielder, with the
City new boy playing several games for Falkirk in that position last season.
The 22 year old former Scottish under 21 international has signed for City
on an initial one year deal.
City boss Peter Jackson, who has been tracking the pair for several weeks,
said: "Mark Stewart is a really exciting prospect and finished as one of the
top scorers in the Scottish First Division last season.
"He has a lot of pace and can easily play down the middle or out wide on
either side."
"He can score a variety of different goals - I've seen him score goals with
his left foot, right foot and his head.
"Chris Mitchell is very versatile and can easily play right back or left
back. He could also do a job for us at right midfield or central midfield,
so he can fill at least one or two positions for us.
"His presence in the squad will be a real benefit for us given his
versatility, and he is extremely hungry and determined to succeed in
England.
"His deliveries from set-pieces should also prove to be a great asset for
us.
"The pair of them are really keen to impress and they are both looking to
the challenge - these are two players that I am really excited about."
Stewart, a former youth player with Celtic, moved to Falkirk in
2006 following a brief spell with Patrick Thistle.
In total, Stewart made 90 appearances for the Bairns - 42 of them coming in
the Scottish Premier League over recent seasons.
Apart from a loan spell with Ayr United during the latter part of the
2009/10 season, his former Falkirk team-mate Mitchell has previously played
all his career at Falkirk Stadium.
Like Stewart, Mitchell has also featured in the SPL for Falkirk.
During his time with Falkirk, Mitchell earned his seven caps at under 21 for
Scotland - five of which came in UEFA Under 21 European Championship
qualifiers.
===========================
STEVE PARKIN DEAL FOR BRADFORD CITY 'COOLING OFF'
Exclusive By Simon Parker (T&A)
Steve Parkin's bid to buy into City looks to be fading as he admitted: We're
somewhat adrift.
The millionaire businessman had wanted to take over the club from
joint-chairmen Mark Lawn and Julian Rhodes and team them up with the Bulls
in one grand sporting organisation.
When his initial offer was knocked back, Parkin was given the chance to come
on board alongside the current owners at Valley Parade as a third investor.
But it appears that the two sides have not managed to find common ground up
to now.
Parkin revealed that his interest in City had been pushed to one side while
he concentrated his efforts on a separate business commitment.
He said: "It's cooled off a little bit. We've had further talks and can't
get to a deal.
"Unfortunately I've got a very big deal going down right now with something
else which I've got to get over the line. That's focusing my mind at the
moment."
===========================
BRADFORD CITY SIGN SCOTTISH WHIZZ-KID
By Simon Parker (T&A)
Peter Jackson will today sign a teenage midfielder he calls "the best
16-year-old I have seen".
Scotland under-17 international Scott Brown has agreed a two-year deal with
City after making a big impression in pre-season training. The club also
have the option to extend the contract by a further two years.
Six-footer Brown, spotted by chief scout Archie Christie, has already made
one senior appearance for Clyde.
Pre-season
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2372524,00.html
Wed 13 July 2011 Silsden AFC A 7.45pm
Fri 15 July 2011 Matlock Town A 7.45pm
Tue 19 July 2011 Guiseley A 7.45pm
Fri 22 July 2011 Bradford (Park Avenue) A 7.45pm
Sun 24 July 2011 Bolton Wanderers H 3.00pm
Sat 30 July 2011 Carlisle United H 3.00pm
Full season
Got adobe PDF reader? See the fixtures here
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/staticFiles/3/7a/0,,10266~162307,00.pdf
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2376580,00.html
===========================
New kit
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/ClubShop/0,,10266~2385335,00.html
===========================
DAVID WETHERALL LEAVES CITY FOR TOP JOB WITH FOOTBALL LEAGUE
By Simon Parker (T&A)
David Wetherall is ending a 12-year era at City after accepting a new job
with the Football League.
Wetherall has been appointed the league's head of youth development and will
take up the post at their Preston headquarters next month.
The 40-year-old joined the Bantams for £1.4m from Leeds in June 1999 ahead
of the club's first season in the Premier League.
He made 330 appearances at centre half for City, despite suffering a couple
of serious injuries, before hanging up his boots in May 2008. He scored 21
goals - including the famous header against Liverpool which ensured the club
stayed up in the top flight.
Wetherall had a spell as caretaker manager while still playing, reluctantly
taking the reins when Colin Todd was sacked in February 2007. But he was
unable to prevent the club from relegation to the bottom division.
He has run the youth team for the past two seasons, flourishing in the role,
before earning the chance to work for the league.
Wetherall said: "It was a difficult decision to leave because I've developed
a great affinity for the place.
"But this is a top job in youth development football. These opportunities
don't come along very often and it is something I couldn't afford to turn
down."
---
It was an offer I couldn't refuse, says Bradford City hero David Wetherall
7:40am Thursday 23rd June 2011
By Simon Parker
David Wetherall today looked towards life beyond Bradford City and admitted: It's going to be strange.
Wetherall is leaving Valley Parade to take up a prestige post as the Football League's head of youth development.
It will end a 12-year spell with the Bantams as captain and centre half, caretaker manager and assistant, first-team coach and – for the last two years – boss of the youth department.
The 40-year-old is excited by the prospect of helping to improve the level of young talent around the country.
But it is still a huge wrench to quit the club he served with distinction on and off the field.
Wetherall said: "Despite this being such a great opportunity, part of me has a certain sadness about it. It's the end of a big chapter in my life. It will be strange not driving into Bradford anymore.
"I've built up a great affinity with the club over the years and that won't change. But an opportunity like this one does not come around often."
===========================
From the BBC...
BRADFORD CITY SCOUT ARCHIE CHRISTIE EYES CHAMPIONSHIP
Bradford City's new chief scout believes the club will be playing in the
Championship within five seasons.
Archie Christie arrived at Valley Parade on Tuesday after a successful spell
with Dagenham & Redbridge.
He told BBC Radio Leeds: "My target is that in four to five years time we'll
be in the Championship.
"I believe over the next two years we'll have a promotion, and I believe two
years after that we'll have another promotion," he added.
"It'll be with a squad that we've developed over four or five years without
spending any money. It'll take us into the Championship and then we can
compete on a level playing field at our level.
"We're a Championship club at the moment playing in League Two."
The recruitment process will see four scouts employed by the club to bring
in new talent.
"We've quality scouts who know what we're looking for," said Christie.
"One scout is ex-Celtic, one is ex-Arsenal. We're not looking for players
for the youth team because Peter Horne has done a stunning and magnificent
job.
"There is a gap between the first team and the youth team, and we're going
to fill that gap.
"We're going to bring in six to eight players who will be part of a
development team that is under my own budget."
And Christie revealed he had already made moves to bring in players.
"I've already signed a 17-year old international who's coming on 1 July," he
said
"I've signed an under-19 international who's coming on 1 July, and I've got
two others coming who are not good enough for the Premiership, but if we
develop them, we'll then take them on."
===========================
From the Official BCFC Website…
LEEDS TICKET PRICES AGREED
Ticket prices for City's Carling Cup 1st round tie at Elland Road have now
been agreed by the football club and Leeds United.
Match tickets for the tie - set to take place on Tuesday 9 August 2011 -
will cost £15.00 for adults and £8.00 for concessions.
Concessions at Elland Road will be deemed as juniors under 16 and senior
citizens 60 and over.
City fans will be allocated the whole of the South Stand at Elland Road with
the option to also use the South East corner if needed.
The official website will be in a position to supply further information,
such as the first date of ticket sales, in due course.
===========================
The football club are now in a position to release the admission details for City's two home pre-season friendlies this summer against Bolton Wanderers and Carlisle United.
City are due to host matches against the Premier League and League 1 outfits on Sunday 24 July and Saturday 30 July respectively.
Entry into either one of these fixtures will cost £10.00 for adults and £5.00 for concessions.
There will also be no advance sales for either match - supporters are therefore asked to pay on the turnstiles.
City supporters will have access to the Co-operative Main Stand on an unreserved basis for both matches.
Bolton Wanderers and Carlisle United supporters will be allocated the Betrescue Stand, equally on an unreserved basis.
===========================
From the YP
Bantams in 'positive' takeover talks with Parkin
Published on Wednesday 22 June 2011 03:26
BRADFORD CITY joint chairman Julian Rhodes has confirmed fresh talks have taken place with millionaire businessman Steve Parkin over his attempts to buy the club.
As exclusively revealed in yesterday's Yorkshire Post, the chief executive of Brighouse-based Clipper Group wants to purchase the Bantams as part of his grand vision to set up a Bradford Sporting Club that would include both the city's senior football and rugby league teams.
Parkin met both Rhodes and fellow joint chairman Mark Lawn at Valley Parade yesterday afternoon in an attempt to move the deal along.
Rhodes confirmed last night: "We have had a meeting with Steve and those talks are on-going. It was a positive meeting that saw a whole host of issues discussed.
"Steve has now gone away and is going to get back to us in the next few days. What we all want is the best for Bradford City. Steve is someone who sees the potential that exists at Bradford City and we all want what is best for the club."
It is understood that, along with Parkin's intention to buy out the existing shareholders, a possible joint venture was also suggested by Lawn and Rhodes that would see all three men work together to drive City forward.
As part of the proposal put forward by City's joint chairmen, Parkin would invest in the Bantams to purchase a third of the shareholding in the League Two club.
This would appear to fly in the face of Parkin's original intention of taking overall control and then installing his own hand-picked management team to run the Bantams on a day-to-day basis.
His grand plan for Bradford sport, which was revealed in this newspaper at the start of last week, would see a similar set-up installed at the Bulls.
The two clubs would also be housed in one stadium with the eventual plan being to build a purpose-built stadium in the city for them both to share.
Rhodes has been on the Valley Parade board since the late Nineties along with his father, Professor David Rhodes, while Lawn joined in 2007. The three men recently bought the office block that stands next to City's home to ease what was, at the time, a crippling rent bill
===========================
JONES, GRIMES ELUDE CITY
Rochdale midfielder Gary Jones and Millwall striker Ashley Grimes have both eluded Peter Jackson's attempts to bring them to Valley Parade next season. Clayton Donaldson has said he will not play at League 2 level.
As "Boy from Brazil" states "...the City boss seems to be moving onto his Plan B list".
===========================
From the Official BCFC Website...
SCOTTISH DUO JOIN THE BANTAMS
City have today (Friday) managed to double their purchases for the summer by
completing deals to bring Scottish duo Mark Stewart and Chris Mitchell to
Valley Parade.
The pair, who both featured for Scottish First Division side Falkirk last
season, become City's third and fourth signings of the summer following the
arrivals of Guy Branston and Ross Hannah earlier in the close season.
Striker Stewart, 23, arrives at the Coral Windows Stadium after finishing
last season as Falkirk's top scorer - a feat which also left him as one of
the top scorers in the whole division in the process.
Stewart is known to be comfortable playing in several different
attacking positions including as a winger or a central striker, and has
penned a two year contract with the Bantams.
The arrival of defender Mitchell should add some extra depth to the Bantams'
squad as the Stirling-born full back is familiar playing as either a right
or left back.
Mitchell can also feature as a right winger or central midfielder, with the
City new boy playing several games for Falkirk in that position last season.
The 22 year old former Scottish under 21 international has signed for City
on an initial one year deal.
City boss Peter Jackson, who has been tracking the pair for several weeks,
said: "Mark Stewart is a really exciting prospect and finished as one of the
top scorers in the Scottish First Division last season.
"He has a lot of pace and can easily play down the middle or out wide on
either side."
"He can score a variety of different goals - I've seen him score goals with
his left foot, right foot and his head.
"Chris Mitchell is very versatile and can easily play right back or left
back. He could also do a job for us at right midfield or central midfield,
so he can fill at least one or two positions for us.
"His presence in the squad will be a real benefit for us given his
versatility, and he is extremely hungry and determined to succeed in
England.
"His deliveries from set-pieces should also prove to be a great asset for
us.
"The pair of them are really keen to impress and they are both looking to
the challenge - these are two players that I am really excited about."
Stewart, a former youth player with Celtic, moved to Falkirk in
2006 following a brief spell with Patrick Thistle.
In total, Stewart made 90 appearances for the Bairns - 42 of them coming in
the Scottish Premier League over recent seasons.
Apart from a loan spell with Ayr United during the latter part of the
2009/10 season, his former Falkirk team-mate Mitchell has previously played
all his career at Falkirk Stadium.
Like Stewart, Mitchell has also featured in the SPL for Falkirk.
During his time with Falkirk, Mitchell earned his seven caps at under 21 for
Scotland - five of which came in UEFA Under 21 European Championship
qualifiers.
===========================
STEVE PARKIN DEAL FOR BRADFORD CITY 'COOLING OFF'
Exclusive By Simon Parker (T&A)
Steve Parkin's bid to buy into City looks to be fading as he admitted: We're
somewhat adrift.
The millionaire businessman had wanted to take over the club from
joint-chairmen Mark Lawn and Julian Rhodes and team them up with the Bulls
in one grand sporting organisation.
When his initial offer was knocked back, Parkin was given the chance to come
on board alongside the current owners at Valley Parade as a third investor.
But it appears that the two sides have not managed to find common ground up
to now.
Parkin revealed that his interest in City had been pushed to one side while
he concentrated his efforts on a separate business commitment.
He said: "It's cooled off a little bit. We've had further talks and can't
get to a deal.
"Unfortunately I've got a very big deal going down right now with something
else which I've got to get over the line. That's focusing my mind at the
moment."
===========================
BRADFORD CITY SIGN SCOTTISH WHIZZ-KID
By Simon Parker (T&A)
Peter Jackson will today sign a teenage midfielder he calls "the best
16-year-old I have seen".
Scotland under-17 international Scott Brown has agreed a two-year deal with
City after making a big impression in pre-season training. The club also
have the option to extend the contract by a further two years.
Six-footer Brown, spotted by chief scout Archie Christie, has already made
one senior appearance for Clyde.
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