Nucleus of Bradford City squad ‘starting to look decent’ (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Mr Parkinson you have certainly won me round. Didn't much care for your style of play last season but I like the way you keep things to yourself until the deal is done.

What I do get fed up of is the rumours that appear on here. Whoever we sign we have to believe they want to play for Bradford and give them ALL a chance no matter how they played for us last season.

MrsAngryofRidd wrote:
Mr Parkinson you have certainly won me round. Didn't much care for your style of play last season but I like the way you keep things to yourself until the deal is done. What I do get fed up of is the rumours that appear on here. Whoever we sign we have to believe they want to play for Bradford and give them ALL a chance no matter how they played for us last season.

Are you Mrs Parkinson?

PP is doing a great job along with Steve Parkin who has obviously had a input in some of the signings. So far they have done what they set out to do now its upto the fans to get behind them. Positive thinking gets you along way and we need to remember its a long season with ups and downs. We will be somewhere near at the end of it im sure.

The starting side looks like it will be strong and capable of at least a play off spot if not better.

I don't think the squad is an therefore glad PP is on the look out for more.

Is it to much to ask of Wells & Hanson (if they are around) to be the main goal scorers to fire us to sucess? Are we on the look out for a more experienced man to work with them?

Has Dagnall signed anywhere?

I see John Wothington (still only 29) has signed for Mansfield.
Along wth the 3 we already have to play in the centre I think he would have been a decent signing to finish it off in the middle.

I think PP was defensive last season because of the fact if we lost a few games we would have been in non league.

This year we will see PPs true managerial style.

Trying to remain grounded though don't want to think 'this is our season' because of all the seasons prior I have thought that.

fatbloke wrote:
The starting side looks like it will be strong and capable of at least a play off spot if not better.

I don't think the squad is an therefore glad PP is on the look out for more.

Is it to much to ask of Wells & Hanson (if they are around) to be the main goal scorers to fire us to sucess? Are we on the look out for a more experienced man to work with them?

Has Dagnall signed anywhere?

I see John Wothington (still only 29) has signed for Mansfield.
Along wth the 3 we already have to play in the centre I think he would have been a decent signing to finish it off in the middle.

Fatbloke - I believe we should be pushing Hanson and Wells to get us the goals but looking at the signings so far, I would suggest that PP looks at Hannah and Wells as being inexperienced and therefore not totally reliable and Hanson as being hit and miss until he picked up at the end of the season.

I would not be surprised to see a Gray-esque 30ish, well established, 15 goal a season type player coming in soon.

I also expect a few more defensively - note PP's quote on needing more options.

But still - it's taking shape - fingers crossed, feeling positive.

*
" Quote : “He’s another player who’s going to improve. We want as many as possible in the squad who can grow with the club.” " Unquote.
*
This is the right thinking. I am pleased to see this quote from 'Parky'. City need to grow with --'YOUNGER ' Players.(NB.- NOT TO BE SOLD ON--Chairmen !!!!).
*
Gradually building a Squad to hopefully eventually achieve promotion, is the correct style, and approach, for Bradford City.
*
It follows that by building a younger Squad, to achieve the desired promotion; Will auger well for continuity, to sustain that promotion, in League 1.
*
I totally endorse " Patience" , which a considerable number of City's Superb Supporters ( 10,000 Plus) -- need to apply to this Seasons' potential achievement. Patience is ,as I have said before--This Seasons' watchword.
*

I said during all the poor moments last season this is the year you judge PP. I could see the seeds of a decent team with the correct additions and looking at the signings we are not a million miles off. If we do start positively it will be interesting reading these posts and see how many knee jerk knobs who last season had nothing but negative comments about PP, come on and say they may have been wrong?

Birkybantam92 wrote:
I think PP was defensive last season because of the fact if we lost a few games we would have been in non league.

This year we will see PPs true managerial style.

Trying to remain grounded though don't want to think 'this is our season' because of all the seasons prior I have thought that.

I hope you are right Birky, I keep trying to convince myself, probably like many others are of the same thing.

Can't stand the combintion of being bored and failing to get results. Will take bored and winning though :-)

I am sarting to feel optimistic, but at this time of year I would if Peter Taylor was boss (well maybe not)...

Have a feeling something is going to happen! lets hope its good.

This bloke sounds like he knows what he's talking about and quite shrewd! Talking to Barnsley fans about Jones and even at his age sounds a right player! Last season and several seasons before we have been bullied by sides giving it 110% simply because we are BCFC! (Their cup final game of the season!) So I hope we have physically and mentally tough new recruits! I would like us to get another striker with expearience and also a 6 foot something box to box mobile central midfielder to put it around! Somebody younger than Jones. That kid who played for Cheltenham kind of player!
Just a note a friend at work says Adam Boyd formerly of Hartlepool has no club! Good finisher. Things looking good though with the side!

Im sure alot of people will disagree with me but i hope to see Howarth and Smalley back. Both young and will be good squad players. Last season was hard for young players to come into the team.

Forget that. Howarth gone to Falkirk :o)

Correctness wrote:

MrsAngryofRidd wrote:
Mr Parkinson you have certainly won me round. Didn't much care for your style of play last season but I like the way you keep things to yourself until the deal is done. What I do get fed up of is the rumours that appear on here. Whoever we sign we have to believe they want to play for Bradford and give them ALL a chance no matter how they played for us last season.

Are you Mrs Parkinson?

And are you a clown

neiltherealdeal wrote:
I said during all the poor moments last season this is the year you judge PP. I could see the seeds of a decent team with the correct additions and looking at the signings we are not a million miles off. If we do start positively it will be interesting reading these posts and see how many knee jerk knobs who last season had nothing but negative comments about PP, come on and say they may have been wrong?

I was one who had a negative opinion of PP but also I understood there may have been mitigating circumstances.

My opinions are not set in stone.

My opinion of Atkinson isn't great but again he was a young lad in a sruggling team and hopefully he will improve.

Some fans form opinions sooner then others doesn't make us/them 'knee jerk knobs' lol

ricky76 wrote:

Correctness wrote:

MrsAngryofRidd wrote: Mr Parkinson you have certainly won me round. Didn't much care for your style of play last season but I like the way you keep things to yourself until the deal is done. What I do get fed up of is the rumours that appear on here. Whoever we sign we have to believe they want to play for Bradford and give them ALL a chance no matter how they played for us last season.

Are you Mrs Parkinson?

And are you a clown

So it was Mrs Parkinson!

Correctness wrote:

ricky76 wrote:

Correctness wrote:

MrsAngryofRidd wrote: Mr Parkinson you have certainly won me round. Didn't much care for your style of play last season but I like the way you keep things to yourself until the deal is done. What I do get fed up of is the rumours that appear on here. Whoever we sign we have to believe they want to play for Bradford and give them ALL a chance no matter how they played for us last season.

Are you Mrs Parkinson?

And are you a clown

So it was Mrs Parkinson!

so you are a clown, so come on who do you support, Leeds or Huddersfield ?

MrsAngryofRidd wrote:
Mr Parkinson you have certainly won me round. Didn't much care for your style of play last season but I like the way you keep things to yourself until the deal is done. What I do get fed up of is the rumours that appear on here. Whoever we sign we have to believe they want to play for Bradford and give them ALL a chance no matter how they played for us last season.

On what basis ?

My, you are easily pleased !!

Good to see a mix of younger and experienced players this season, still need a few more in and definately a striker.

remember tommy docherty who had his contract cancelled at city.....he has signed for exeter so will be back at valley parade.

Thornton Bantam wrote:
PP is doing a great job along with Steve Parkin who has obviously had a input in some of the signings. So far they have done what they set out to do now its upto the fans to get behind them. Positive thinking gets you along way and we need to remember its a long season with ups and downs. We will be somewhere near at the end of it im sure.

"Has been doing a great job"??????.
Have you been watching City under "Deadbeat"???.
As for......"We will be somewhere near at the end of the season"...WHAT NON LEAGUE!!

No I am not Mrs Parkinson, nor am I a clown to which I take exception, nor am I easily pleased. I have been following Bradford City for more than 30 years, good and bad which is probably more than a lot of you have. Plus I am not at the last minute getting my season ticket, waiting to see how the season will end!! So rather than keep posting negative comments why don't you keep your thoughts to yourselves and get behind the players we have.

shaun from richmond wrote:

Thornton Bantam wrote:
PP is doing a great job along with Steve Parkin who has obviously had a input in some of the signings. So far they have done what they set out to do now its upto the fans to get behind them. Positive thinking gets you along way and we need to remember its a long season with ups and downs. We will be somewhere near at the end of it im sure.

"Has been doing a great job"??????.
Have you been watching City under "Deadbeat"???.
As for......"We will be somewhere near at the end of the season"...WHAT NON LEAGUE!!

He inherited a shocking squad last year, had limited funds to work with due to Archie "Honest mate" Christie wasting the budget on non-league children who were blatantly unworthy of wearing the shirt, and Jacko signing some poor players. If rumours were to be believed Branston was on 4-5k per week with bonuses!?!?! Fair play PP I've been backing you to turn this club around and the players you and Steve Parkin are signing are clearly better than anyone we've recruited since McCall's first season. The players records at this level speak for themselves. I'm actually looking forward to the season starting for the first time in 3 years!

fatbloke wrote:
The starting side looks like it will be strong and capable of at least a play off spot if not better. I don't think the squad is an therefore glad PP is on the look out for more. Is it to much to ask of Wells & Hanson (if they are around) to be the main goal scorers to fire us to sucess? Are we on the look out for a more experienced man to work with them? Has Dagnall signed anywhere? I see John Wothington (still only 29) has signed for Mansfield. Along wth the 3 we already have to play in the centre I think he would have been a decent signing to finish it off in the middle.

I believe that the Barnsley manager threw down the gauntlet to Dagnall and told him he will get chances this season if he works hard. I believe Hill is looking forward to working with Dagnall again and has promised to give him a fair crack.
.
As for Worthington, isn't he the same player that we had a couple of seasons ago and released? He ended up going to Mansfield who also released him. He is now plying his trade in the Blue Square North..! Do we really want this kind of player?
.
Personally, I think that Ritchie Jones and Ravenhill are good defensively and that Jones snr is the better attacking threat. Surely if we are going to strengthen that area, it is someone to compete with Jones snr in an attacking capacity?
.
Of the players we have signed, I rate;
Davies and Darby. I have seen Thompson, Atkinson & Jones snr play really well in the past and I 'hope' that they regain/continue that form. As for; Meredith & McArdle, I must admit I know nothing about them, other than what has been written.
.
I still feel we need full-back cover and (I may get shot down by some for this but), I would welcome back Kozluk for this position. I would still like to see us getting someone like Izale McLeod to compete with Hanson up front and if we could bag someone like Dele Adebola or Billy Paynter as well, that would be fantastic. Then, I just feel we need someone to compete with Jones snr for the attacking midfield role, but cannot think of anyone other than Lee Bowyer that fits the bill.
.
This would then give us a very good and balanced squad with decent players in every position. Should we need to use the loan market, hopefully, we will not need to cover a whole team with loanees.

huggy b wrote:

shaun from richmond wrote:

Thornton Bantam wrote: PP is doing a great job along with Steve Parkin who has obviously had a input in some of the signings. So far they have done what they set out to do now its upto the fans to get behind them. Positive thinking gets you along way and we need to remember its a long season with ups and downs. We will be somewhere near at the end of it im sure.

"Has been doing a great job"??????. Have you been watching City under "Deadbeat"???. As for......"We will be somewhere near at the end of the season"...WHAT NON LEAGUE!!

He inherited a shocking squad last year, had limited funds to work with due to Archie "Honest mate" Christie wasting the budget on non-league children who were blatantly unworthy of wearing the shirt, and Jacko signing some poor players. If rumours were to be believed Branston was on 4-5k per week with bonuses!?!?! Fair play PP I've been backing you to turn this club around and the players you and Steve Parkin are signing are clearly better than anyone we've recruited since McCall's first season. The players records at this level speak for themselves. I'm actually looking forward to the season starting for the first time in 3 years!

There are many points I disagree with on your post, but the biggest one is "are clearly better than anyone we've recruited since McCall's first season".
.
FIRST season? What, when he made all his signings in a couple of weeks and without actually seeing most of them play? Surely you mean his second season when we signed the likes of Boulding, Thorne, McLaren, Lee etc????

Waynus1971 wrote:

huggy b wrote:

shaun from richmond wrote:

Thornton Bantam wrote: PP is doing a great job along with Steve Parkin who has obviously had a input in some of the signings. So far they have done what they set out to do now its upto the fans to get behind them. Positive thinking gets you along way and we need to remember its a long season with ups and downs. We will be somewhere near at the end of it im sure.

"Has been doing a great job"??????. Have you been watching City under "Deadbeat"???. As for......"We will be somewhere near at the end of the season"...WHAT NON LEAGUE!!

He inherited a shocking squad last year, had limited funds to work with due to Archie "Honest mate" Christie wasting the budget on non-league children who were blatantly unworthy of wearing the shirt, and Jacko signing some poor players. If rumours were to be believed Branston was on 4-5k per week with bonuses!?!?! Fair play PP I've been backing you to turn this club around and the players you and Steve Parkin are signing are clearly better than anyone we've recruited since McCall's first season. The players records at this level speak for themselves. I'm actually looking forward to the season starting for the first time in 3 years!

There are many points I disagree with on your post, but the biggest one is "are clearly better than anyone we've recruited since McCall's first season".
.
FIRST season? What, when he made all his signings in a couple of weeks and without actually seeing most of them play? Surely you mean his second season when we signed the likes of Boulding, Thorne, McLaren, Lee etc????

He signed Thorne in his first season.

Waynus1971 wrote:

fatbloke wrote:
The starting side looks like it will be strong and capable of at least a play off spot if not better. I don't think the squad is an therefore glad PP is on the look out for more. Is it to much to ask of Wells & Hanson (if they are around) to be the main goal scorers to fire us to sucess? Are we on the look out for a more experienced man to work with them? Has Dagnall signed anywhere? I see John Wothington (still only 29) has signed for Mansfield. Along wth the 3 we already have to play in the centre I think he would have been a decent signing to finish it off in the middle.

I believe that the Barnsley manager threw down the gauntlet to Dagnall and told him he will get chances this season if he works hard. I believe Hill is looking forward to working with Dagnall again and has promised to give him a fair crack.
.
As for Worthington, isn't he the same player that we had a couple of seasons ago and released? He ended up going to Mansfield who also released him. He is now plying his trade in the Blue Square North..! Do we really want this kind of player?
.
Personally, I think that Ritchie Jones and Ravenhill are good defensively and that Jones snr is the better attacking threat. Surely if we are going to strengthen that area, it is someone to compete with Jones snr in an attacking capacity?
.
Of the players we have signed, I rate;
Davies and Darby. I have seen Thompson, Atkinson & Jones snr play really well in the past and I 'hope' that they regain/continue that form. As for; Meredith & McArdle, I must admit I know nothing about them, other than what has been written.
.
I still feel we need full-back cover and (I may get shot down by some for this but), I would welcome back Kozluk for this position. I would still like to see us getting someone like Izale McLeod to compete with Hanson up front and if we could bag someone like Dele Adebola or Billy Paynter as well, that would be fantastic. Then, I just feel we need someone to compete with Jones snr for the attacking midfield role, but cannot think of anyone other than Lee Bowyer that fits the bill.
.
This would then give us a very good and balanced squad with decent players in every position. Should we need to use the loan market, hopefully, we will not need to cover a whole team with loanees.

Mcleod wont move north in case he will get a nose blood the lad is a southern softie

huggy b wrote:

Waynus1971 wrote:

huggy b wrote:

shaun from richmond wrote:

Thornton Bantam wrote: PP is doing a great job along with Steve Parkin who has obviously had a input in some of the signings. So far they have done what they set out to do now its upto the fans to get behind them. Positive thinking gets you along way and we need to remember its a long season with ups and downs. We will be somewhere near at the end of it im sure.

"Has been doing a great job"??????. Have you been watching City under "Deadbeat"???. As for......"We will be somewhere near at the end of the season"...WHAT NON LEAGUE!!

He inherited a shocking squad last year, had limited funds to work with due to Archie "Honest mate" Christie wasting the budget on non-league children who were blatantly unworthy of wearing the shirt, and Jacko signing some poor players. If rumours were to be believed Branston was on 4-5k per week with bonuses!?!?! Fair play PP I've been backing you to turn this club around and the players you and Steve Parkin are signing are clearly better than anyone we've recruited since McCall's first season. The players records at this level speak for themselves. I'm actually looking forward to the season starting for the first time in 3 years!

There are many points I disagree with on your post, but the biggest one is "are clearly better than anyone we've recruited since McCall's first season".
.
FIRST season? What, when he made all his signings in a couple of weeks and without actually seeing most of them play? Surely you mean his second season when we signed the likes of Boulding, Thorne, McLaren, Lee etc????

He signed Thorne in his first season.

And yes, I was more excited that season due to our club legend just taking over the managerial reigns. And I believed in that squad more than the Mclaren/Lee one as they were clearly here for the money. I take it you believe Jacko's squad were capable of a top half finish? The fact is we will finish in a higher league position this season than the previous two. So yes, I'm excited for a change.

huggy b wrote:

huggy b wrote:

Waynus1971 wrote:

huggy b wrote:

shaun from richmond wrote:

Thornton Bantam wrote: PP is doing a great job along with Steve Parkin who has obviously had a input in some of the signings. So far they have done what they set out to do now its upto the fans to get behind them. Positive thinking gets you along way and we need to remember its a long season with ups and downs. We will be somewhere near at the end of it im sure.

"Has been doing a great job"??????. Have you been watching City under "Deadbeat"???. As for......"We will be somewhere near at the end of the season"...WHAT NON LEAGUE!!

He inherited a shocking squad last year, had limited funds to work with due to Archie "Honest mate" Christie wasting the budget on non-league children who were blatantly unworthy of wearing the shirt, and Jacko signing some poor players. If rumours were to be believed Branston was on 4-5k per week with bonuses!?!?! Fair play PP I've been backing you to turn this club around and the players you and Steve Parkin are signing are clearly better than anyone we've recruited since McCall's first season. The players records at this level speak for themselves. I'm actually looking forward to the season starting for the first time in 3 years!

There are many points I disagree with on your post, but the biggest one is "are clearly better than anyone we've recruited since McCall's first season". . FIRST season? What, when he made all his signings in a couple of weeks and without actually seeing most of them play? Surely you mean his second season when we signed the likes of Boulding, Thorne, McLaren, Lee etc????

He signed Thorne in his first season.

And yes, I was more excited that season due to our club legend just taking over the managerial reigns. And I believed in that squad more than the Mclaren/Lee one as they were clearly here for the money. I take it you believe Jacko's squad were capable of a top half finish? The fact is we will finish in a higher league position this season than the previous two. So yes, I'm excited for a change.

I think Lee received a lot of bad press and most of it unjustified. I perosnally thought he did a good job at City but just lacked a strong partner who didnt constantly make mistakes

DisplacedNortherner wrote:

huggy b wrote:

huggy b wrote:

Waynus1971 wrote:

huggy b wrote:

shaun from richmond wrote:

Thornton Bantam wrote: PP is doing a great job along with Steve Parkin who has obviously had a input in some of the signings. So far they have done what they set out to do now its upto the fans to get behind them. Positive thinking gets you along way and we need to remember its a long season with ups and downs. We will be somewhere near at the end of it im sure.

"Has been doing a great job"??????. Have you been watching City under "Deadbeat"???. As for......"We will be somewhere near at the end of the season"...WHAT NON LEAGUE!!

He inherited a shocking squad last year, had limited funds to work with due to Archie "Honest mate" Christie wasting the budget on non-league children who were blatantly unworthy of wearing the shirt, and Jacko signing some poor players. If rumours were to be believed Branston was on 4-5k per week with bonuses!?!?! Fair play PP I've been backing you to turn this club around and the players you and Steve Parkin are signing are clearly better than anyone we've recruited since McCall's first season. The players records at this level speak for themselves. I'm actually looking forward to the season starting for the first time in 3 years!

There are many points I disagree with on your post, but the biggest one is "are clearly better than anyone we've recruited since McCall's first season". . FIRST season? What, when he made all his signings in a couple of weeks and without actually seeing most of them play? Surely you mean his second season when we signed the likes of Boulding, Thorne, McLaren, Lee etc????

He signed Thorne in his first season.

And yes, I was more excited that season due to our club legend just taking over the managerial reigns. And I believed in that squad more than the Mclaren/Lee one as they were clearly here for the money. I take it you believe Jacko's squad were capable of a top half finish? The fact is we will finish in a higher league position this season than the previous two. So yes, I'm excited for a change.

I think Lee received a lot of bad press and most of it unjustified. I perosnally thought he did a good job at City but just lacked a strong partner who didnt constantly make mistakes

To be fair he was playing alongside Williams!

Waynus1971 wrote:

fatbloke wrote:
The starting side looks like it will be strong and capable of at least a play off spot if not better. I don't think the squad is an therefore glad PP is on the look out for more. Is it to much to ask of Wells & Hanson (if they are around) to be the main goal scorers to fire us to sucess? Are we on the look out for a more experienced man to work with them? Has Dagnall signed anywhere? I see John Wothington (still only 29) has signed for Mansfield. Along wth the 3 we already have to play in the centre I think he would have been a decent signing to finish it off in the middle.

I believe that the Barnsley manager threw down the gauntlet to Dagnall and told him he will get chances this season if he works hard. I believe Hill is looking forward to working with Dagnall again and has promised to give him a fair crack.
.
As for Worthington, isn't he the same player that we had a couple of seasons ago and released? He ended up going to Mansfield who also released him. He is now plying his trade in the Blue Square North..! Do we really want this kind of player?
.
Personally, I think that Ritchie Jones and Ravenhill are good defensively and that Jones snr is the better attacking threat. Surely if we are going to strengthen that area, it is someone to compete with Jones snr in an attacking capacity?
.
Of the players we have signed, I rate;
Davies and Darby. I have seen Thompson, Atkinson & Jones snr play really well in the past and I 'hope' that they regain/continue that form. As for; Meredith & McArdle, I must admit I know nothing about them, other than what has been written.
.
I still feel we need full-back cover and (I may get shot down by some for this but), I would welcome back Kozluk for this position. I would still like to see us getting someone like Izale McLeod to compete with Hanson up front and if we could bag someone like Dele Adebola or Billy Paynter as well, that would be fantastic. Then, I just feel we need someone to compete with Jones snr for the attacking midfield role, but cannot think of anyone other than Lee Bowyer that fits the bill.
.
This would then give us a very good and balanced squad with decent players in every position. Should we need to use the loan market, hopefully, we will not need to cover a whole team with loanees.

Yes Worthington came to us under Taylor for a short period. Like many of our recruits in the past 'to get fit'.
You don't captain Udders for 5 players if your not good enough for us, think any die hard City fan would have to accept that.

He has made a permanent move to Mansfield and I don't think it's fair to judge a player on who has released him.
Us City fans should know better then most, the majority of releases are financial decisions rather then one's based on ability.

Based on your theory of looking for someone to compete with Jones snr, yeh you might be right.

However I think Parkie will play with 2 centre mids protecting in a whatever formation he plays based on the full backs he has signed either in a 4231, 442 or 352.
Add to the fact he thought Syers got in the oppositions box too often!!

So in my theory I think a it Worthington would have been a good addition to give us 4 very good centre midfield players.

MrsAngryofRidd wrote:
No I am not Mrs Parkinson, nor am I a clown to which I take exception, nor am I easily pleased. I have been following Bradford City for more than 30 years, good and bad which is probably more than a lot of you have. Plus I am not at the last minute getting my season ticket, waiting to see how the season will end!! So rather than keep posting negative comments why don't you keep your thoughts to yourselves and get behind the players we have.

the person who asked you if you ae Mrs Parkinson is a complete idiot and comes on here only to satisfy his tiny minute brain.

The other deregotary comments were aimed at him and not you. Its follows as a thread.

Just thought I would let you know.

ive heard that izale mcloed will be joining bradford cty soon,this signing will send shock waves through the rotherham managers y-fronts. Cty and rotherham in the hunt.

prince35 wrote:
ive heard that izale mcloed will be joining bradford cty soon,this signing will send shock waves through the rotherham managers y-fronts. Cty and rotherham in the hunt.

If this is true i think im gonna pee myself come on city!!!

fatbloke wrote:

Waynus1971 wrote:

fatbloke wrote:
The starting side looks like it will be strong and capable of at least a play off spot if not better. I don't think the squad is an therefore glad PP is on the look out for more. Is it to much to ask of Wells & Hanson (if they are around) to be the main goal scorers to fire us to sucess? Are we on the look out for a more experienced man to work with them? Has Dagnall signed anywhere? I see John Wothington (still only 29) has signed for Mansfield. Along wth the 3 we already have to play in the centre I think he would have been a decent signing to finish it off in the middle.

I believe that the Barnsley manager threw down the gauntlet to Dagnall and told him he will get chances this season if he works hard. I believe Hill is looking forward to working with Dagnall again and has promised to give him a fair crack.
.
As for Worthington, isn't he the same player that we had a couple of seasons ago and released? He ended up going to Mansfield who also released him. He is now plying his trade in the Blue Square North..! Do we really want this kind of player?
.
Personally, I think that Ritchie Jones and Ravenhill are good defensively and that Jones snr is the better attacking threat. Surely if we are going to strengthen that area, it is someone to compete with Jones snr in an attacking capacity?
.
Of the players we have signed, I rate;
Davies and Darby. I have seen Thompson, Atkinson & Jones snr play really well in the past and I 'hope' that they regain/continue that form. As for; Meredith & McArdle, I must admit I know nothing about them, other than what has been written.
.
I still feel we need full-back cover and (I may get shot down by some for this but), I would welcome back Kozluk for this position. I would still like to see us getting someone like Izale McLeod to compete with Hanson up front and if we could bag someone like Dele Adebola or Billy Paynter as well, that would be fantastic. Then, I just feel we need someone to compete with Jones snr for the attacking midfield role, but cannot think of anyone other than Lee Bowyer that fits the bill.
.
This would then give us a very good and balanced squad with decent players in every position. Should we need to use the loan market, hopefully, we will not need to cover a whole team with loanees.

Yes Worthington came to us under Taylor for a short period. Like many of our recruits in the past 'to get fit'.
You don't captain Udders for 5 players if your not good enough for us, think any die hard City fan would have to accept that.

He has made a permanent move to Mansfield and I don't think it's fair to judge a player on who has released him.
Us City fans should know better then most, the majority of releases are financial decisions rather then one's based on ability.

Based on your theory of looking for someone to compete with Jones snr, yeh you might be right.

However I think Parkie will play with 2 centre mids protecting in a whatever formation he plays based on the full backs he has signed either in a 4231, 442 or 352.
Add to the fact he thought Syers got in the oppositions box too often!!

So in my theory I think a it Worthington would have been a good addition to give us 4 very good centre midfield players.

I don't know about that, with the players brought in and those we have I think we have no option but to play like Spain -without Strikers !

shaun from richmond wrote:

Thornton Bantam wrote:
PP is doing a great job along with Steve Parkin who has obviously had a input in some of the signings. So far they have done what they set out to do now its upto the fans to get behind them. Positive thinking gets you along way and we need to remember its a long season with ups and downs. We will be somewhere near at the end of it im sure.

"Has been doing a great job"??????.
Have you been watching City under "Deadbeat"???.
As for......"We will be somewhere near at the end of the season"...WHAT NON LEAGUE!!

Whats wrong, worried inCorrectness is going to steal your 'Saddest N0bhead' title away? Moron that he is, he's still got a long way to go to beat you, you tool

McLeod was seen at vp this morning

Thornton Bantam wrote:
Im sure alot of people will disagree with me but i hope to see Howarth and Smalley back. Both young and will be good squad players. Last season was hard for young players to come into the team.

Didn't Howarth sign for Falkirk?

Mcloed will be a bradford cty player very soon

huggy b wrote:

DisplacedNortherner wrote:

huggy b wrote:

huggy b wrote:

Waynus1971 wrote:

huggy b wrote:

shaun from richmond wrote:

Thornton Bantam wrote: PP is doing a great job along with Steve Parkin who has obviously had a input in some of the signings. So far they have done what they set out to do now its upto the fans to get behind them. Positive thinking gets you along way and we need to remember its a long season with ups and downs. We will be somewhere near at the end of it im sure.

"Has been doing a great job"??????. Have you been watching City under "Deadbeat"???. As for......"We will be somewhere near at the end of the season"...WHAT NON LEAGUE!!

He inherited a shocking squad last year, had limited funds to work with due to Archie "Honest mate" Christie wasting the budget on non-league children who were blatantly unworthy of wearing the shirt, and Jacko signing some poor players. If rumours were to be believed Branston was on 4-5k per week with bonuses!?!?! Fair play PP I've been backing you to turn this club around and the players you and Steve Parkin are signing are clearly better than anyone we've recruited since McCall's first season. The players records at this level speak for themselves. I'm actually looking forward to the season starting for the first time in 3 years!

There are many points I disagree with on your post, but the biggest one is "are clearly better than anyone we've recruited since McCall's first season". . FIRST season? What, when he made all his signings in a couple of weeks and without actually seeing most of them play? Surely you mean his second season when we signed the likes of Boulding, Thorne, McLaren, Lee etc????

He signed Thorne in his first season.

And yes, I was more excited that season due to our club legend just taking over the managerial reigns. And I believed in that squad more than the Mclaren/Lee one as they were clearly here for the money. I take it you believe Jacko's squad were capable of a top half finish? The fact is we will finish in a higher league position this season than the previous two. So yes, I'm excited for a change.

I think Lee received a lot of bad press and most of it unjustified. I perosnally thought he did a good job at City but just lacked a strong partner who didnt constantly make mistakes

To be fair he was playing alongside Williams!

Thought he played alongside Clarke and Williams was the season after when we had no cash. Seem to remember Williams making his debut when we got thrashed against notts county in our first game of the season. I maybe wrong though.

Thornton Bantam wrote:
Im sure alot of people will disagree with me but i hope to see Howarth and Smalley back. Both young and will be good squad players. Last season was hard for young players to come into the team.

I agree about Smalley. He was getting better and better. the last game i saw him, he came on as Sub. both teams were playing head tennis but he brought in down on his chest, played a nice pass and moved. later he played a lovely 1-2 with Ravenhill, which we could easily have scored from. All simple stuff but rarely seen last season.

This is always the best time of the season - The time when everybody, including myself, genuinely believe we have a chance of doing something.

mickyoi wrote:

huggy b wrote:

DisplacedNortherner wrote:

huggy b wrote:

huggy b wrote:

Waynus1971 wrote:

huggy b wrote:

shaun from richmond wrote:

Thornton Bantam wrote: PP is doing a great job along with Steve Parkin who has obviously had a input in some of the signings. So far they have done what they set out to do now its upto the fans to get behind them. Positive thinking gets you along way and we need to remember its a long season with ups and downs. We will be somewhere near at the end of it im sure.

"Has been doing a great job"??????. Have you been watching City under "Deadbeat"???. As for......"We will be somewhere near at the end of the season"...WHAT NON LEAGUE!!

He inherited a shocking squad last year, had limited funds to work with due to Archie "Honest mate" Christie wasting the budget on non-league children who were blatantly unworthy of wearing the shirt, and Jacko signing some poor players. If rumours were to be believed Branston was on 4-5k per week with bonuses!?!?! Fair play PP I've been backing you to turn this club around and the players you and Steve Parkin are signing are clearly better than anyone we've recruited since McCall's first season. The players records at this level speak for themselves. I'm actually looking forward to the season starting for the first time in 3 years!

There are many points I disagree with on your post, but the biggest one is "are clearly better than anyone we've recruited since McCall's first season". . FIRST season? What, when he made all his signings in a couple of weeks and without actually seeing most of them play? Surely you mean his second season when we signed the likes of Boulding, Thorne, McLaren, Lee etc????

He signed Thorne in his first season.

And yes, I was more excited that season due to our club legend just taking over the managerial reigns. And I believed in that squad more than the Mclaren/Lee one as they were clearly here for the money. I take it you believe Jacko's squad were capable of a top half finish? The fact is we will finish in a higher league position this season than the previous two. So yes, I'm excited for a change.

I think Lee received a lot of bad press and most of it unjustified. I perosnally thought he did a good job at City but just lacked a strong partner who didnt constantly make mistakes

To be fair he was playing alongside Williams!

Thought he played alongside Clarke and Williams was the season after when we had no cash. Seem to remember Williams making his debut when we got thrashed against notts county in our first game of the season. I maybe wrong though.

You're right, it was Clarke. Much of a muchness though!

It's so exciting looking forward to a new season - shame it has to start really.

McLeod was my first choice and I was first to say he was a free agent months ao,

Martin Allen now at gillinghan

Question for all posters. Why does everyone respond to all these Knobs that come on and wind everyone up? Just ignore them and carry on with your positive conversations with all the other posters. With a bit of luck they will get sick of not being able to get a rise out of us and might just quietly slip away. Also, let's all stop ripping eachothers throats out over comments and opinions. We are all City fans together and together we get behind our club as one. The squad looks to be shaping up nicely with a few more to come. Roll on the start of the season.

The rumour mill today linked the Bantams with Damien Reeves, Altrincham's striker, and Blackburn midfielder Robbie Cotton.

Also heard McLeod was seen at VP today.

Mixed feelings, not sure why he ended plying his trade at lowly Barnett when he is a capable goalscorer, is he a difficult character? If not then someone with his nouse in front of goal maybe a brilliant signing, or he could end up like other goalscorers and go under like so many before who have played for City.

MrsAngryofRidd wrote:
No I am not Mrs Parkinson, nor am I a clown to which I take exception, nor am I easily pleased. I have been following Bradford City for more than 30 years, good and bad which is probably more than a lot of you have. Plus I am not at the last minute getting my season ticket, waiting to see how the season will end!! So rather than keep posting negative comments why don't you keep your thoughts to yourselves and get behind the players we have.

Yeah but you said he's won you round?

How / why?

When you purchased your season ticket is nothing to do with anything, nor is your length of service as a City fan.

How can a man who managed that God-awful team last season (that finished 18th in the 4th Division) have suddenly won you round by words in a paper?

Honestly, I am keen to know?

A mate of mine saw the postman at VP today.

Prisoner Cell Block A wrote:
Also heard McLeod was seen at VP today. Mixed feelings, not sure why he ended plying his trade at lowly Barnett when he is a capable goalscorer, is he a difficult character? If not then someone with his nouse in front of goal maybe a brilliant signing, or he could end up like other goalscorers and go under like so many before who have played for City.

Was wondering the same thing myself. He had a great goalscoring record for MK, averaged almost a goal every 2 games over 3 seasons, but after his big money move to Charlton things seemed to go down hill for him, was wondering whether he is one of these that got 'found out' at a higher level, seemed to have a few loan moves not doing very much and ended up at Barnet, but has started getting in the goals again in what is a pretty poor team. I'd be more than happy if we signed him myself, would give us pretty exciting, pacey looking front line.

Don't talk bull Pablo, you haven't got any mates ;)

tyker2 wrote:
McLeod was my first choice and I was first to say he was a free agent months ao,

Martin Allen now at gillinghan

Waynus beat you in the 'would like McLeod' claims. He mentioned
whilst he was out injured at least a season or so ago -I think. Is it certain he is signing or guesswork?

Babbsy wrote:
This is always the best time of the season - The time when everybody, including myself, genuinely believe we have a chance of doing something.

ER.....Doing WHAT ???. Cos "Deadbeat" hasnt got the first clue what hes doing!!...

Rumoured to have been at VP is all lonnie, not even certain that is true.

bantamcougar wrote:

Correctness wrote:

ricky76 wrote:

Correctness wrote:

MrsAngryofRidd wrote: Mr Parkinson you have certainly won me round. Didn't much care for your style of play last season but I like the way you keep things to yourself until the deal is done. What I do get fed up of is the rumours that appear on here. Whoever we sign we have to believe they want to play for Bradford and give them ALL a chance no matter how they played for us last season.

Are you Mrs Parkinson?

And are you a clown

So it was Mrs Parkinson!

so you are a clown, so come on who do you support, Leeds or Huddersfield ?

So I am a clown - that must be very strong evidence that I am a City fan.

MrsAngryofRidd wrote:
No I am not Mrs Parkinson, nor am I a clown to which I take exception, nor am I easily pleased. I have been following Bradford City for more than 30 years, good and bad which is probably more than a lot of you have. Plus I am not at the last minute getting my season ticket, waiting to see how the season will end!! So rather than keep posting negative comments why don't you keep your thoughts to yourselves and get behind the players we have.

Well said Mrs Angry!!

I would love to see MCLoed at city. Wanted him for years. Still think billy paynter would be another good option. Shaun from Richmond change your record. How silly are you gonna feel if we do well this coming season. If you don't like deadbeat as you call him then go support another team and stop coming on here. Getting boring now reading your same rubbish! Not happy Martin Allen gillingham manager. He will do well for gills.

Bikenshaw Illy wrote:
I would love to see MCLoed at city. Wanted him for years. Still think billy paynter would be another good option. Shaun from Richmond change your record. How silly are you gonna feel if we do well this coming season. If you don't like deadbeat as you call him then go support another team and stop coming on here. Getting boring now reading your same rubbish! Not happy Martin Allen gillingham manager. He will do well for gills.

Therewill be no chance of Shaun feelin silly this season. It's the same pre season record as for the last five seasons and yet the end product has been the same a fight for survival. The truth really does hurt.

Mrs Angry I'm with you all the way !!

Correctness wrote:

Bikenshaw Illy wrote:
I would love to see MCLoed at city. Wanted him for years. Still think billy paynter would be another good option. Shaun from Richmond change your record. How silly are you gonna feel if we do well this coming season. If you don't like deadbeat as you call him then go support another team and stop coming on here. Getting boring now reading your same rubbish! Not happy Martin Allen gillingham manager. He will do well for gills.

Therewill be no chance of Shaun feelin silly this season. It's the same pre season record as for the last five seasons and yet the end product has been the same a fight for survival. The truth really does hurt.

Are you Shauns love child

Prisoner Cell Block A wrote:
Rumoured to have been at VP is all lonnie, not even certain that is true.

okie dokie, ta.

Waynus1971 wrote:

fatbloke wrote: The starting side looks like it will be strong and capable of at least a play off spot if not better. I don't think the squad is an therefore glad PP is on the look out for more. Is it to much to ask of Wells & Hanson (if they are around) to be the main goal scorers to fire us to sucess? Are we on the look out for a more experienced man to work with them? Has Dagnall signed anywhere? I see John Wothington (still only 29) has signed for Mansfield. Along wth the 3 we already have to play in the centre I think he would have been a decent signing to finish it off in the middle.

I believe that the Barnsley manager threw down the gauntlet to Dagnall and told him he will get chances this season if he works hard. I believe Hill is looking forward to working with Dagnall again and has promised to give him a fair crack. . As for Worthington, isn't he the same player that we had a couple of seasons ago and released? He ended up going to Mansfield who also released him. He is now plying his trade in the Blue Square North..! Do we really want this kind of player? . Personally, I think that Ritchie Jones and Ravenhill are good defensively and that Jones snr is the better attacking threat. Surely if we are going to strengthen that area, it is someone to compete with Jones snr in an attacking capacity? . Of the players we have signed, I rate; Davies and Darby. I have seen Thompson, Atkinson & Jones snr play really well in the past and I 'hope' that they regain/continue that form. As for; Meredith & McArdle, I must admit I know nothing about them, other than what has been written. . I still feel we need full-back cover and (I may get shot down by some for this but), I would welcome back Kozluk for this position. I would still like to see us getting someone like Izale McLeod to compete with Hanson up front and if we could bag someone like Dele Adebola or Billy Paynter as well, that would be fantastic. Then, I just feel we need someone to compete with Jones snr for the attacking midfield role, but cannot think of anyone other than Lee Bowyer that fits the bill. . This would then give us a very good and balanced squad with decent players in every position. Should we need to use the loan market, hopefully, we will not need to cover a whole team with loanees.

Fatbloke where did you get the idea Worthington signed for Mansfield?

He left them 3 days ago for Halifax. Don't you read the news lol

Hopefully the recent signings have started to appease those who were panicking that we hadn't made any additions, when there were over 2 months to go to the season start.

Probably the same impatient few that want the manager sacked every 2 or 3 months.

Personally I'd be looking to bring in another 5 players, bare minimum.

We need both a right and left back, and I'd probably resign Fry for the latter, as he can also provide cover at centre back.

I'd also be looking to sign a winger who can play both sides.

Interesting to see if Parkinson feels that Gary Jones can play the holding midfield role, if Ravenhill is absent. If he does then I'd be looking to bring in a creative midfielder, but if not then we will need another ballwinner.

I think a target man is crucial at this level, so we need someone who can provide competition to Hanson, but who is also mobile enough to potentially play alongside him.

Ideally, I'd also like to see us get rid of Duke, and bring in another keeper as number 1. Jonny Mac to me is an average keeper at this level, but I'd quite happily have him as a number 2.

Id also like to see us sign a tricky forward who knows where the back of the net is, but wouldn't any other league 2 manager.

I don't doubt that Parkinson will assemble a good squad, as I thought he did that the last campaign, and he didn't have the benefit of a pre season.

The greatest challenge he has to me is getting the best out the players; something he didn't do last season, and something that in my opinion, his predecessors, McCall, Taylor and Jacko also failed to do.

I think McLeod had a series of long term injury problems until he joined Barnet.

Bradford1903 wrote:
Hopefully the recent signings have started to appease those who were panicking that we hadn't made any additions, when there were over 2 months to go to the season start. Probably the same impatient few that want the manager sacked every 2 or 3 months. Personally I'd be looking to bring in another 5 players, bare minimum. We need both a right and left back, and I'd probably resign Fry for the latter, as he can also provide cover at centre back. I'd also be looking to sign a winger who can play both sides. Interesting to see if Parkinson feels that Gary Jones can play the holding midfield role, if Ravenhill is absent. If he does then I'd be looking to bring in a creative midfielder, but if not then we will need another ballwinner. I think a target man is crucial at this level, so we need someone who can provide competition to Hanson, but who is also mobile enough to potentially play alongside him. Ideally, I'd also like to see us get rid of Duke, and bring in another keeper as number 1. Jonny Mac to me is an average keeper at this level, but I'd quite happily have him as a number 2. Id also like to see us sign a tricky forward who knows where the back of the net is, but wouldn't any other league 2 manager. I don't doubt that Parkinson will assemble a good squad, as I thought he did that the last campaign, and he didn't have the benefit of a pre season. The greatest challenge he has to me is getting the best out the players; something he didn't do last season, and something that in my opinion, his predecessors, McCall, Taylor and Jacko also failed to do.

Disagree about McLaughlin being an 'average' league 2 keeper. Imo he is excellent at this level and rarely makes a mistake. For over 5 years I've wanted him to be our number 1, because other than Rhys Evans no-one has matched his ability since the premiership days.

He can catch, kick, lead and save...what else do you want from a keeper?

northyorksbantam wrote:

Prisoner Cell Block A wrote:
Also heard McLeod was seen at VP today. Mixed feelings, not sure why he ended plying his trade at lowly Barnett when he is a capable goalscorer, is he a difficult character? If not then someone with his nouse in front of goal maybe a brilliant signing, or he could end up like other goalscorers and go under like so many before who have played for City.

Was wondering the same thing myself. He had a great goalscoring record for MK, averaged almost a goal every 2 games over 3 seasons, but after his big money move to Charlton things seemed to go down hill for him, was wondering whether he is one of these that got 'found out' at a higher level, seemed to have a few loan moves not doing very much and ended up at Barnet, but has started getting in the goals again in what is a pretty poor team. I'd be more than happy if we signed him myself, would give us pretty exciting, pacey looking front line.

who signed him for big money at Charlton? was that PP by any chance? just posing a question?

No. It was parcel but his assistant was PP or so my reach reveals.
And far from being a southerner he is a brummie and played for derby and Sheffield it'd in his career. So on that basis he should have no problem heading north.

however, now that Allen has been appointed at GIllingham McLeaod may end up there!!

Danstar, totally agree about Jonny Mac. His growth was stunted by playing Eastwood for a season who is now plying his trade at BPA. He has dropped a few clangers but all keepers do, your assessment of his attributes to be of decent standard is correct. He is still a 'baby' in goalkeeper years and will continue to improve.

Danstarr69 wrote:

Bradford1903 wrote:
Hopefully the recent signings have started to appease those who were panicking that we hadn't made any additions, when there were over 2 months to go to the season start. Probably the same impatient few that want the manager sacked every 2 or 3 months. Personally I'd be looking to bring in another 5 players, bare minimum. We need both a right and left back, and I'd probably resign Fry for the latter, as he can also provide cover at centre back. I'd also be looking to sign a winger who can play both sides. Interesting to see if Parkinson feels that Gary Jones can play the holding midfield role, if Ravenhill is absent. If he does then I'd be looking to bring in a creative midfielder, but if not then we will need another ballwinner. I think a target man is crucial at this level, so we need someone who can provide competition to Hanson, but who is also mobile enough to potentially play alongside him. Ideally, I'd also like to see us get rid of Duke, and bring in another keeper as number 1. Jonny Mac to me is an average keeper at this level, but I'd quite happily have him as a number 2. Id also like to see us sign a tricky forward who knows where the back of the net is, but wouldn't any other league 2 manager. I don't doubt that Parkinson will assemble a good squad, as I thought he did that the last campaign, and he didn't have the benefit of a pre season. The greatest challenge he has to me is getting the best out the players; something he didn't do last season, and something that in my opinion, his predecessors, McCall, Taylor and Jacko also failed to do.

Disagree about McLaughlin being an 'average' league 2 keeper. Imo he is excellent at this level and rarely makes a mistake. For over 5 years I've wanted him to be our number 1, because other than Rhys Evans no-one has matched his ability since the premiership days.

He can catch, kick, lead and save...what else do you want from a keeper?

I just feel that with him there is a mistake not too far around the corner, but to be fair he didn't make as many last season.

As for stoppers since the Premiership, then yes I rated Evans, but there were also Coombe and Henderson who were far better keepers'.

lonniejockstrap wrote:

tyker2 wrote:
McLeod was my first choice and I was first to say he was a free agent months ao,

Martin Allen now at gillinghan

Waynus beat you in the 'would like McLeod' claims. He mentioned
whilst he was out injured at least a season or so ago -I think. Is it certain he is signing or guesswork?

Very true Lonnie. He is a player I have 'wished' for, for quite a while now. I originally wanted us to go in for him after Charlton released him, but he chose Barnet and their medical centre. He said they offered him something special as he was recovering from a serious injury.
.
Which moves me onto the current situation. PP was 'desperate' to sign Benson last season but when his medical showed up signs of his knee injury, that scuppered the deal.
.
As I said above, Charlton released McLeod due to a serious knee injury (I think that's where the injury was) and there were doubts he could play again. Barnet took a gamble on him and used their top-of-the-range rehabilitation centre to help get his career back on track, BUT will his previous injury prevent any move to City???

tyker2 wrote:
No. It was parcel but his assistant was PP or so my reach reveals.
And far from being a southerner he is a brummie and played for derby and Sheffield it'd in his career. So on that basis he should have no problem heading north.

however, now that Allen has been appointed at GIllingham McLeaod may end up there!!

I too fear that he may choose Gillingham and a reunion with Allen rather than ending up at City. He is a player I have admired for many seasons and hoped we would sign many times. If we are trailing him and get him to come, I would rate that as PP's best City signing to date.
.
However, aren't Walsall, Bristol Rovers and now Gillingham all being linked with him? I would love him in a resplendent City shirt, but sadly, I just can't see it happening.