Rory McArdle revealed Phil Parkinson’s hunger for success persuaded him to become City’s second summer recruit yesterday.

The Northern Ireland international has penned a two-year deal to follow the permanent signing of fellow defender Andrew Davies.

The Sheffield-born centre back, who can also play full back, was a free agent after his contract at Aberdeen expired.

McArdle, 25, began his career at Sheffield Wednesday but made his name at Rochdale before moving to Pittodrie two years ago.

Parkinson’s men will be backed by over 8,000 season-ticket holders next term and McArdle is aware of the potential that exists at Valley Parade.

McArdle, who won promotion from League Two with Rochdale in 2010, said: “Once I heard about the opportunity to come here, I jumped at the chance.

“Everything the gaffer had to say to me before I signed was nice and positive.

“His ambitions for the club were very impressive and made me feel like it was something I was wanted to be part of. Everyone knows about the stature of a club like Bradford.”

The signing of Davies has encouraged hopes of a serious promotion push next term.

Certainly McArdle believes that City’s long-suffering fans could have something to shout about next season.

The versatile player, who won his latest Northern Ireland cap as a substitute against Holland at the Amsterdam Arena last weekend, said: “The fans maybe haven’t had the success they’ve deserved in recent years but hopefully that can change now with the gaffer putting his stamp on things this summer.

“With the calibre of the players we have here already and the players that we have brought in, like Andrew Davies, there’s no reason why we can’t look to have a good season.”

Parkinson, who remains keen to bolster his squad further, said: “Rory is a good signing for us. We have been speaking to him for a couple of weeks now and we’re thrilled to have his signature.

“He has been successful at this level (with Rochdale) and he has good recent experience of playing up in Scotland with Aberdeen.

“He’s a committed player who’s hungry for success and that’s what we are looking for. The more players we can get on board with that hunger and desire ingrained in them, like Rory, the better.”