JON Stead today insisted that City were the only team he would have joined on loan.

The Huddersfield striker, back for his second spell at Valley Parade, is keen to build on an impressive start against Bristol City in midweek.

But Stead, whose deal runs until January 3, confessed that he had not been pushing for a move.

"I wasn't actively looking to go out on loan, so it was a bit of a shock," he said.

"Bradford were probably the only club I would have considered because of the history I've got here and how much I enjoyed it last season.

"They fit the bill for me at this part of my career and the stage of my contract at Huddersfield."

The 31-year-old striker's situation is different to when he first came to City in March.

At that stage he was completely out of the picture under previous Terriers boss Mark Robins – who also left him training with the youth team during pre-season.

But Chris Powell brought him back into the squad after Robins was sacked and Stead has been involved regularly.

He said: "Last time was a totally different situation for me. I was desperate to get games.

"This time around, obviously with the change of manager I've been involved on the bench, started a couple of games and got a couple of goals. I felt things were moving in the right direction.

"I think the manager was caught in two minds about whether to maybe be a bit selfish and keep me in and around as back-up or let me go and get some games.

"That is what I need to keep my career going and I think that's what he felt was the best way to go.

"It was a difficult decision because I'd fought my way to get back into the frame at Huddersfield.

"I'd worked so hard from being sent to train with the kids in pre-season and not going on tour. It was a tough time for me to get through that and come out the right side.

"I didn't want it to look like I'm jumping out the door at the first chance again, so I left it with the manager. But he wants me to go and get some games."

Huddersfield have a recall clause after the first month but Stead is happy to focus his immediate future on the other side of the M62. He believes City are getting a far sharper player than before.

He said: "I think I'm the right sort of character to help on the pitch and in the dressing room as well. Physically, I'm at a better stage now than I was when I came last time.

"I'm not playing catch-up and needing three or four games to find my feet. I don't feel rusty and all my touches are how I'd like them to be.

"I like it here and that's why I've come back. I love playing for Bradford and I think it shows.

"I can't believe I've only been here a week because I've just slotted back in. I know the management will get the best out of me."