Bradford City leavers react to being released by club

Long serving goalkeeper Richard O'Donnell was a hugely popular figure at the club, and his love for the fans is clearly mutual, as he retweeted several posts from City followers offering him their best wishes.

He also made his own comments on Twitter about leaving too:

4 years, 137 games, captain. It’s been some ride. Want to thank everyone for their support over the last 4 years. I leave with my head held high knowing I’ve given everything I can both on and off the pitch. I wish nothing but success to the club going forward… pic.twitter.com/nFq2png0ld

— Richard O'Donnell (@RichODonnell23) May 13, 2022

He added:

Thank you to everyone who made me and my family feel so welcome from day one. Some amazing people at this club, from Leanne at the training ground to Paula and Janice at the ground, they are the heartbeat of the place. Thank you again 🧡

— Richard O'Donnell (@RichODonnell23) May 13, 2022

And then also cleared up any concerns with the way the decision had been announced, after suggestions that he had only found out about his departure on social media:

Also want to point out that I’ve got no issue what so ever with the way the club handled anything. As I pointed out yesterday, there’s so many good people at the club who do what’s best for the club!

— Richard O'Donnell (@RichODonnell23) May 14, 2022

Callum Cooke also had his say after his departure was confirmed, sharing a picture of him scoring in the League Cup against Nottingham Forest: 

Enjoyed every minute of carrying the weight and expectation of playing for this club! Wish the lads, staff and fans the very best for future! Bradford city, thank you. 🧡🧡 pic.twitter.com/6ucGgfviXh

— Callum Cooke (@cooke_8) May 14, 2022

So far, the other four departed players have yet to comment publicly on their departures, Gareth Evans, Theo Robinson, Caolan Lavery and Olivier Sukiennicki.

But City did share this post dedicated to Evans when announcing his departure:

👍 | More than 1️⃣0️⃣0️⃣ appearances in claret and amber - over 2️⃣ separate spells, 1️⃣0️⃣ years apart.

❤️💛 | Thanks for your service, Gaz, and all the best for the future!#BCAFC pic.twitter.com/yJdg1D3p4e

— Bradford City AFC (@officialbantams) May 13, 2022