JAMIE Walker is staying at Valley Parade for a further year after City triggered their option to extend his contract ahead of the approaching deadline.

The Scot has been offered new terms but it would appear that a deal hasn’t yet been reached.

So, the Bantams have taken up the option to extend his current one for next season – as they have done with Brad Halliday and Bobby Pointon, who are also in talks about committing to longer-term stays.

Clubs have until midnight on the third Saturday of May, this coming weekend, to take up such options in existing player contracts – and avoid the risk of losing them.

On extending his stay at Valley Parade, Walker said: “I am delighted to be here for another year.

“Personally, I felt I ended the season quite well. I am looking forward to getting back for pre-season and getting going again.

“I enjoy being here. I enjoy the big crowds, the matches, and the feel of being at a proper football club.

“My family has really settled here away from football, and I think that is a big part of being successful on the pitch.

“I am always open to doing stuff in the community and I really enjoy playing for this football club.

“Hopefully, this season, I can get a full season under my belt and really help the team to kick on. The foundations are there for everyone, and hopefully we can go on and have a successful season.”

City boss Graham Alexander was pleased to get him tied down.

He said: “I am really looking forward to working with Jamie again and I’m sure he will strive to continue where he left off last season.

“It was so frustrating not having him available for such a significant period, but when he was fit, I really enjoyed seeing what he brought to our team.

“He understands what we are trying to create and I am sure he will continue to work hard to play a significant part in our plans.”

Derek Adams brought Walker to West Yorkshire on loan from Hearts in January 2022. His first goal at Stevenage clinched the manager’s final win before he was sacked.

Mark Hughes moved to make Walker’s deal permanent at the end of that season and he has gone on to make 63 appearances with 14 goals.

Walker finished the season with three goals and two assists in his last four outings.

FLASH SALE: Catch all our City content for just £3 for 3 months or 30 per cent off the annual subscription in our latest deal by clicking HERE