BRADFORD (Park Avenue) have announced the signing of Jake Hibbs on a one-year deal with the option for a second.

The box-to-box midfielder made nine appearances while on-loan at Avenue from Spennymoor Town last season, forming a good partnership with Nicky Clee in the centre of the park.

Hibbs came through Manchester City's academy before landing at Vanarama National League side Halifax Town, where he made 57 appearances and earned an FA Trophy medal.

During his four years at the Shay, he went on several loans including a short spell at Mark Bower's Bradford at the end of the 2016-17 campaign.

After being released from Halifax, the 24-year-old signed for Spennymoor, where injuries damaged his playing time.

In his three months at Horsfall this year, he showed signs of a player more than capable of being a regular in any Vanarama National League North side.

Hibbs told Avenue's website: "When the opportunity came up to sign for BPA it was a no brainer for me really, having worked with Mark and Danny before.

"I’ve always enjoyed my time playing for them and feel that they can bring the best out of me by having a full season with them.

"Obviously last season was a bit of a strange one, both personally and for football in general, but the time I spent on loan at Bradford has made my decision really easy to join for the upcoming season.

"Looking at the players we have already signed it looks like its going to be an exciting season on the pitch, so I’m really looking forward to getting started and meeting the lads again."

Bower added: "We are delighted to secure the signing of Jake Hibbs on a permanent basis following his loan spell with us.

"Jake put in some strong performances for us last season and we are looking forward to helping him push on and fulfil his undoubted potential.

"Jake was a stand out player in The National League a few years ago whilst at Halifax, but has had a frustrating time more recently.

"We believe Jake has the potential to reach and surpass the standards he has set in the past and the key for him joining us was our determination to help him achieve this by playing him regularly in his strongest position in a style of play that suits his attributes."