Peter Atherton is ready to end his career with City after agreeing a new deal to stay.

Atherton, who Nicky Law believes can become his Stuart McCall, will put pen to paper on a two-year contract.

But Lincoln goalkeeper Alan Marriott has snubbed City because he did not want to play second fiddle to Alan Combe.

Law feels Atherton can have a big influence on and off the field with the new-look squad for next season. The 33-year-old's experience will be invaluable alongside younger team-mates.

Atherton was the most consistent performer last term, playing 25 games and scoring his first City goal against Crystal Palace. He was ruled out by a knee injury for the last four matches - and they lost them all.

Midfielder Tom Kearney, returning from his season-long absence, said: "It's great news for everyone at the club that Athers is staying. He is a great player and a good, seasoned pro who brings out the best in the people around him.

"He's a big help, especially for the young lads. Hopefully I'll be playing alongside him because you can learn so much."

Atherton, who will sign when he reports back for training on Monday, was City's third highest earner but has taken a huge pay cut to fit into the new wage cap.

He said: "I'm delighted we've managed to come to an agreement because I never wanted to leave the club. The supporters have always been great and now the problems of last summer are behind us we can look forward to the new season.

"It will be good to be back and see the lads, as well as meet up with all the new guys."

But as the squad continues to take shape, City must look elsewhere for a second keeper after losing out on Marriott.

Law hoped to recruit the 24-year-old this week as back-up to Combe. But Marriott, an ever-present last season as Lincoln reached the play-off final, has decided to stay put and sign a new two-year contract.

Marriott, who was also chased by two other Division Three clubs, said: "I didn't want to go somewhere else and sit on the bench or fester in somebody's reserves.

"I had contact with three clubs within the last month but none of them would have been a good move as far as my playing career is concerned."

Reports in East Anglia are linking City with Norwich defender Paul Heckingbottom.

l City are at home to Darlington in the first round of the newly-named Carling Cup on Tuesday, August 12.

It is the first home cup tie for the Bantams since January 2001, ending a run of six away games on the trot.