Will Atkinson has promised to show City fans his real form after signing a one-year deal.

The midfielder admitted he did not do himself justice during his half-season loan spell at Valley Parade.

The 23-year-old featured in 12 games, scoring once, but found it hard to make an impact.

But with a permanent contract now under his belt, Atkinson is ready to prove he is worth a second chance at the club.

He said: “I’ve definitely got a lot more to give and hopefully I can show that this year.

“I didn’t really do as well as I could have done on loan and I was a bit disappointed with my performances. But it was tough coming in to a team that maybe was struggling a little bit.”

Atkinson turned pro with local club Hull in 2006 but has spent seven spells on loan, including two with Rochdale where he won promotion from League Two. Now he is looking forward to putting down roots again.

“Coming into a situation where you know the surroundings can only help. Knowing the rest of the lads and staff gives you an advantage on being a new player.

“I’ve been on loan a few times in my short career and it feels a lot better knowing you are part of the club and can give your all for the club. I want to do well for Bradford City and hopefully I’m going to be here for a long time.

“Everyone wants to have everything sorted and now I can get my head down and concentrate on having a good pre-season.”

Atkinson spent the first half of last term with Plymouth, where he made 25 appearances. He joined City in January and made his debut in the 2-1 defeat at Bristol Rovers. He netted his first goal in the 4-0 demolition of Barnet a month later.

Atkinson lost his place midway through City’s miserable March but was recalled to start the final two games against Cheltenham and League Two champions Swindon.

Phil Parkinson sees him as cover for either wings and is still chasing a right-sided midfielder.

City have been strongly linked with former target Garry Thompson, who can play out wide or down the middle, following his release by Scunthorpe.