Mark Bower has a huge say in City's future, Colin Todd stressed today.

The Bantams chief laughed off wild speculation linking the long-serving defender with Burnley by underlining his importance to the team.

Todd said: "There's no truth in it at all. Mark did have an opportunity to move on a while back when he was out of contract but he made it clear then that he didn't want to leave.

"He is the backbone of this football club and I can see him playing regularly for us for many years to come."

The internet rumour, which began over a week ago, suggested that the Clarets would offer John McGreal plus cash for the 26-year-old local lad.

But the story has also been rubbished from the Burnley end. A Turf Moor source confirmed that Steve Cotterill would only be in the market for a right back and is well stocked at centre half.

City have not received any inquiries for players and would not welcome them given the lack of depth in the first-team squad.

Todd, who takes his team to Shrewsbury tonight for their next pre-season clash, needs at least another four new faces before the League One kick-off. He is also pondering the possibility of bringing in another centre back despite Matt Clarke's arrival from Darlington.

But the priority positions remain at left back, left wing, central midfield and centre forward. And having rejected Frenchman Sylvain Meslien, Todd may use another trialist in the left back role at Gay Meadow.

Sean Wright, released by Everton, linked up with City yesterday and is likely to get an early chance to shine against Shrewsbury. He played 19 reserve games at Goodison Park last season.

City are short of a left back after releasing Lewis Emanuel, who is currently trying to win a contract with Championship side Luton.

Clarke and Ben Muirhead will again be missing from tonight's friendly, although both are due to resume training later this week. But Richard Edghill will get another chance to continue his comeback from injury.

"Edgy was fine after the Morecambe game and that 45 minutes will have done him a lot of good," Todd added. "Playing again after being out so long will give him a lot of confidence.

"The team will be very similar to Saturday and we're just looking to build on good habits. For 35 minutes we looked good and moved the ball well and we'll look to take that on further."

Former City striker Andy Cooke is likely to play at least a half for Shrewsbury in their first pre-season run-out.