FORMER Bradford City star Chris Waddle has backed the Bantams for success next season during a return visit to the city.

The former England winger, who played for City 25 times, scoring six goals between 1996 and 1997, was at The Red Lion Hotel, Manchester Road, Bankfoot yesterday.

The pub will be called Three Lions from now until the end of the European Championships, which kicks off on June 10, with its signs replaced at the venue, as part of beer company Carlsberg’s Pubstitutions scheme. Mr Waddle said: “Bradford City have come close for the last couple of years. It is just about getting over the line for them and getting promoted now.

“I would be very surprised if they were not around the play-offs again next year. They have just got to come out of the blocks again next year.

“It will be interesting for them next year with their new German owners.”

"I enjoyed my time at Bradford City. I have good memories of my time there."

He also expected England to get to at least the quarter-finals in this month's Euros.

He added: "England need a bit of luck but they need to be positive."

He also expected England to get to at least the quarter-finals in this month’s Euros.

Mr Waddle added: "England need a bit of luck but they need to be positive."