BRADFORD Park Avenue striker Chib Chilaka is delighted to have re-signed for the National League North club, and can’t wait for the new season to start.

Last term’s top scorer said: “We’re back in training soon and I’m really looking forward to it. It’s really good to be here at the moment because it’s the beginning of a completely new era for the club.

“That helped me make my decision to stay, and when I spoke to Martin (new manager Drury), he really sold it to me.

"It’s an exciting time to be here, and when Martin outlined his plans for the coming season I was more than happy to put pen to paper.”

There was no shortage of options for Chilaka after the former Bantams forward had his best season with the city’s other big football club.

The suitors were queuing up and there were offers on the table but he wants to stay at Horsfall Stadium and build on what was achieved last term.

He added: “With all the effort that is going in and the new additions, the expectation is going to be a lot higher in the coming year.

"But the lads that are coming in and with the managerial drive of Martin and (assistant) Jamie (Price), we have a very good base.

“I’ve spoken to a few of the lads over the summer and they’re all happy with what’s going on with the club and they’re looking forward to getting back in.

"John Deacey was a great servant for the club down the years, and Martin and Jamie have learned a lot working under him.

“They came onto the management side and they’re young and fresh but they’ve also seen a difficult period.

"Just around Christmas, when we were at our lowest point and hardly playing any games at home because of the pitch, they will have gained a lot from John’s experience in that time and seeing him pick the club up.

“Now they have taken over and they will be able to put that to good use. Their enthusiasm and vision for the future were a big factor in me staying really.

"I made my mind up after speaking to them regardless of what offers there were for me or who was showing an interest.

“Last season was one of my most enjoyable in the game. I’ve always said to my managers that I’m happy putting the effort in for the good of the team. I’m always prepared to do the graft and work hard for the club.

“When you add goals to it it’s an even better feeling, and that happened for me last season. I scored some goals, and some very important ones, and that’s a great feeling for any striker.”