DEFENDER Ryan Qualter has re-signed for Bradford Park Avenue, and they are on the verge of getting another centre half.

Former York City and Tadcaster Albion Qualter player made 17 appearances for Avenue last season after joining them in January from Ossett Town, where he was captain.

The stopper, who was Tadcaster Albion's Young Player of the Year in his first season there and joined Ossett Town during 2012-13, said of his new deal at Horsfall Stadium: "I'm really pleased to have signed a contract with the club.

"Last season was a really good experience for me to try and step up and play at this level, and I've really enjoyed my time at the club.

Qualter added: "When I spoke to John Deacey and Mark Hume, they explained that they wanted me to stay, and I was extremely pleased.

"The club have got a good set of people on and off the pitch, and with important players staying next year, it can only be a positive.

"With the majority of lads staying and with a couple of new faces, I'm sure we can improve on last season's position."

Delighted Avenue manager Deacey said of Qualter's decision to stay: "I'm very pleased because I feel Ryan has great potential.

"He's got a great attitude and improved with every game for us last season. I'm looking forward to working with him again."

Deacey added: "I’m on the verge of signing a centre half. He has told me privately that he wants to join us and we are meeting him today (Friday) to finalise it, so we’ll see what happens.

"We have got some other players who are interesting us and who have said that they would welcome the challenge.

“We have been scouting around the leagues, as we always do, and we have seen a few little gems here and there.

"There are four or five players from local sides we would like to add to the squad and they will be involved in the friendly games.”

Deacey has a good record of bringing players in who rise to the challenge.

He is adept at spotting talent, and even though some of them have moved on - like Michael Duckworth and possibly Jordan Deacey - most have stayed to play important roles with Avenue.