THACKLEY have expressed their delight at signing former Bradford City defender Luke O’Brien, who scored on his debut for the Dennyboys in last Saturday’s home friendly against Yorkshire Amateur.

O’Brien, a former Bantams player of the year, left Valley Parade after 15 years just two years ago but is still in his mid-20s so has much to offer, and landing his signature is a statement of Thackley’s intent.

Their secretary Mark Holstead said: "The signing of Luke is a significant one for Thackley. It is our highest profile name for many years and benefits both parties.

"It gives a clear indication of where Phil (Woollias) and myself see the club heading in terms of quality, and fits in with our long- term plans for the club.

"Luke is an excellent addition to the squad for Andy (Patterson, manager) and Mick (Watson assistant) and will only strengthen us going into a new season.”

Holstead and chairman Woollias are both new in their roles with Thackley and hope that their fresh outlook will help the Dennyboys progress.

Woollias added: "Luke is a great signing for Thackley. We have been speaking with him for a few weeks now and Luke has bought into the ethos we are trying to build in and around the club.

“We are working very hard behind the scenes to really take the club forward and strengthen our links with the local community.

"One of the key factors in that being successful is having a team that is successful on the pitch. Signing players like Luke can only help with that.”