Parkinson on mission to reward Bradford City fans (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Phil Parkinson on mission to reward Bradford City fans

7:40am Monday 11th June 2012 in Sport By Ross Heppenstall , Bradford Bulls Reporter

Phil Parkinson admits the onus is on him to build a squad to give City’s huge army of fans something to shout about next season.

The Bantams have already secured the services of Andrew Davies and Rory McArdle this summer and more new faces are expected.

The capture of the defensive pair has encouraged hopes that Parkinson can preside over a serious promotion push next term.

City will be backed in big numbers again after over 8,000 supporters snapped up season tickets and Parkinson is desperate to repay their faith.

Moreover, he is happy to face competition for the signature of players rather than sign waifs and strays who could not find a contract elsewhere.

Parkinson said: “It’s been a huge bonus for everybody at the club again to get the amount of season ticket holders that we’ve got.

I’d rather work hard and get a player that we’re really happy with than take somebody who I don’t face any competition for

Phil Parkinson

“It’s absolutely tremendous but now we’ve got to reward that loyalty by a producing a good squad and a good side. That’s what I’m trying to do.

“I’ve said many times before that it’s not easy because you have to compete with other clubs for players like Rory McArdle and Andrew Davies to get them on board.

“But I’d rather work hard and get a player that we’re really happy with than take somebody who I don’t face any competition for.

“People know the potential of Bradford City but we’ve got to start fulfilling that potential.

“The only way we can do that is by getting a good team out on the pitch. That’s what we’re working towards but we’ve got a long way to go yet.”

Parkinson has his eye on a number of players and could yet lure striker Andy Gray back to Valley Parade following initial talks with the veteran frontman.

The Bantams boss said: “We’re working on things behind the scenes and will hopefully have some more good news soon.”

Out-of-contract trio Luke Oliver, Simon Ramsden and David Syers have each been offered new deals for next season and Parkinson expects to hear from them within the next fortnight.

He said: “We’re negotiating with Simon, David and Ollie and are waiting to hear from them really. I’m sure in the next week or so we will have a conclusion on those three players.”