CITY beat off former boss Phil Parkinson to capture Josh Cullen, according to chairman Edin Rahic.

The German revealed that Bolton were among the clutch of clubs trying to take the West Ham midfielder on loan.

But Cullen agreed on Friday night to return to Valley Parade after playing a starring role in the second half of last season.

Speaking exclusively to the T&A, Rahic said: “We fought very hard to get Josh. I think Bolton were desperate to sign him as well as two or three Championship clubs.

“We were informed we had no chance at one stage. There was interest from the Championship and we knew it would also be difficult with his links to Phil and to Tim Breacker.

“But it was really good team work from us. I’ve got a good relationship with some Premier League clubs like West Ham and we all worked very hard to get him, James (Mason), Greg (Abbott) and Stuart McCall.

“I think Josh had a feeling that we really are behind him as a club and he wanted to come. He played very well at Bradford before and wants to play here again.”

Cullen was outstanding in West Ham’s friendly against Juventus on Sunday, which marked the official opening of their London Stadium.

Rahic, who sees the loan as “six months minimum”, believes he can continue to improve as a player alongside Romain Vincelot.

“A very positive thing is to play with Romain,” added Rahic. “He is very experienced in the same position so that will help Josh with his development.

“He was the man of the match against Juventus. To think, he will go from playing Juventus to Accrington now!”

McCall may start Cullen on the bench tomorrow as a precaution against a slight knock from Sunday's game. But the Bantams chief is delighted to get his man.

He said: “We’ve always been in for Josh but realistically we thought he’d maybe go Championship or other clubs in League One. To get the news on Saturday evening was encouraging."

With central midfield now well stocked, City are still looking for another forward before the transfer window closes at the end of the month.

Rahic said: “We’re looking for a striker, of course, but it will take time.

“There are not a boat-load on the market and if they are, they are very expensive.

“But we will used our extensive network to get the right player. This is not the end of our signings.”