It has taken several months but things are finally starting to come together for the man put in charge of the team during the close season.

Manager Gary Brook has endured a nightmare start to his tenure as Bradford boss but in the middle of autumn, this week he was full of the joys of spring.

Brook had a new signing to boast, some heartening news regarding the injury crisis and encouraging signs from his keeper.

"It was essential that we got someone in to score goals and I think we have done that," said former Blackpool and Halifax Town striker Brook.

"We have got Steve Smith from Stalybridge Celtic. I'm sure he can do a job for us in that department.

"He has a lot of experience, as well as being lightning quick - he will frighten a lot of defences.

"We have scored goals. How-ever, we have let a lot of chan-ces go begging - take the two games against Farsley.

"I think we would have won them both if we had converted the openings we made. We have had problems at the back though. Most of that has come because we have had to keep chopping and changing due to injuries.

"The lads have not had time to get used to playing with each other before another match and a different mix of personnel.

"We have had a chat with them about clean sheets. We aren't keeping enough and we are instilling that into the mindset.

"Craig Parry has done well behind the back four but, as with any team at any level, if the keeper makes a mistake it is highlighted because it usually leads to a goal.

"Like every keeper, Craig is not exempt from the odd error but his attitude is first class and he bounces back.

"He accepts he has a lot to learn but he is only 19 and keepers are like fine wines - they mature with age.

"For a young lad he has a lot of good points. He is sharp off his line, brave in everything he does and he is the best shot-stopper in this league."

Brook added: "Club captain Dean Jones is looking at the reserve game this Wednesday to make his comeback and we have our fingers crossed that all goes well. I'm going to have a selection headache soon."