FORMER Aston Villa academy player Riccardo Calder has departed Bradford (Park Avenue) after a short spell at the club.

The young Birmingham-born midfielder has returned to the Midlands to join Avenue's National League North rivals AFC Telford United.

Despite only playing a handful of games for Bradford, Calder clearly holds the club in the highest regard.

After his departure was confirmed, he tweeted: "Thank you to @BPAFCOfficial, Marcus (Law) and @fatmanfowls (Lee Fowler) for all you did for me at BPA, can’t thank you enough.

"Can’t wait to get started now at @telfordutd & keep doing what I love, let’s go!"

Avenue tweeted their best wishes to the player, while a short statement on the club's website read: "Following an approach from AFC Telford United, Riccardo Calder has now left Bradford (Park Avenue).

"All at the club would like to thank Riccardo Calder for his efforts in Red, Amber and Black this season and wish him all the best for the future."