JAMES Meredith has "unfinished business" with City – after revealing that he turned down better offers to move back to Australia.

The left back re-signed for the club on a one-year deal in the second week of pre-season training after a protracted summer.

He now has a fight on his hands to regain the starting slot from new capture Alan Sheehan.

But Meredith is keen to make the most of his second chance and convince the Valley Parade faithful that he remains totally committed to City.

Meredith said: "The contract dragged on and I had a few issues myself.

"It took a bit of time but in the end I think I made the right decision and we got the deal done. I'm happy where I am at Bradford.

"The club did everything right and were spot on with it. The gaffer was good with me as usual.

"There was interest from other clubs – there was strong interest in Australia. Melbourne Heart and Western Sydney Wanderers offered me good deals, probably better.

"But it wasn't right for me. I like playing in England and I like playing for Bradford.

"Maybe playing in Australia is something you do when you're a bit older and you want to go back. It's a bit slower.

"But I love the fast pace here and the competitiveness. I feel I've got unfinished business at this club.

"Everyone has been fine. I'm not sure what the fans exactly feel about me but I'll work hard and I'm here because I want to be."

Meredith missed most of the second half of last season with a fractured right foot. There was a scare last week in Ireland when he caught the same area in training.

But he recovered to face Shelbourne last weekend and played another hour at Ossett on Tuesday without a problem.

"Everything is okay now," he added. "There was a slight scare in Ireland when I must have turned funny and the foot was inflamed for a couple of days.

"At first a couple of the staff were worried but it's mended and it's strong. It's fine.

"I've been out pretty much the whole of the last six months. I've only made two appearances as a substitute at the end of the season.

"I tried very hard to get back fit. I sought out the surgeon to ask if I could get back three weeks early, which he allowed but I've still missed a lot.

"I'm just raring to go now. I'm fired up for this season to help Bradford.

"I want to do my best for the club and see where we go. We know what to expect and how strong this league has become.

"We've brought in some good ball players and seem to be passing a lot more, so hopefully we can really challenge this time."