BRADFORD (Park Avenue) are trying their luck with another young striker after signing former Doncaster Rovers player Will Longbottom.

The 22-year-old came through the Rovers youth system and made four appearances for the first team in Sky Bet League One and Two.

Along with his eight showings in the Football League Trophy, Longbottom was loaned out to Vanarama National League North rivals Kidderminster Harriers, Halesowen Town, and Step 3 side Gainsborough Trinity.

Upon the forward’s release from the Keepmoat at the end of January this year, he decided a spell in Ireland’s Premier Division with Waterford was next on the agenda.

However, in 11 games, the Leeds-born left footer failed to find the net and landed at Horsfall where he has been training over the last few weeks.

Longbottom will go straight into the squad for Saturday’s Boxing Day hosting of promotion favourites York City.

He said: “I’m really looking forward to the Christmas period, it’s the busiest time of the season. I am wanting to make an impact and show the fans what I’m capable of.

“I’ve played in this league before when I was younger so know what it’s about. The staff and players have been great since I’ve been here and I’m looking forward to the challenge.”

Mark Bower will be hoping Longbottom’s arrival works out better than that of Moldovan youngster Ion Ibrian who struggled to get going, only taking to the field three times off the bench.

It may also ease the burden on Lewis Knight’s shoulders. The top scorer has carried Bradford in the goals department, netting an impressive eight in 11 across all competitions this season.

“We’re delighted to have Will onboard,” the Avenue manager added.

“He has shown good quality whilst training with us and being naturally left footed gives us options coming into another busy period.

“He has experience of Conference North football and an excellent pedigree having spent a long time at Doncaster. We hope the move benefits Will and us as a club.”