CITY will have to wait a bit longer to find out if they can bring back Alex Gilliead.

They are in a strong position to take the Newcastle winger on another loan – but the newly-promoted Geordies are still deciding what they think is best for his development.

Gilliead remains highly regarded at St James' Park, even though he has never made a senior appearance for the club.

Rafa Benitez intends to have a good look at him through their first full week of fitness tests before making his mind up on what the next step should be for the 21-year-old.

City want to take Gilliead back on a season's loan after he impressed during a short stint towards the end of last term.

He also enjoyed his time at the club, despite missing eight games with a hamstring injury, and has indicated he would be happy to return.

But it is understood the Bantams face plenty of competition with other clubs in the division alerted by his anticipated availability.

Securing Gilliead would effectively box off the front end of the pitch for City after a busy spell of signings.

Their main focus now has switched to centre half to find a replacement for Rory McArdle.

Head of recruitment Greg Abbott has given Stuart McCall a list of experienced right-sided players to consider.

They are targeting someone in the McArdle mould who has played plenty of games at League One level, rather than an untried youngster.

With Jake Reeves now on board in midfield, there is always the option of Romain Vincelot reverting to a central-defensive role if needed.

The skipper formed an effective partnership with Nathaniel Knight-Percival during the first half of last season and it would be no risk to put him back in there.

While the Bantams are assembling a younger age group within the dressing room, the back four will still boast plenty of experience.

If Vincelot returns to defensive duties, the only change from last season would be at left back, where Adam Chicksen has come in for James Meredith. McCall also has Matt Kilgallon to call upon for either left-sided position.