In the past few years very few Bradford City players have left the club being held in high regard from those who pay their wages- the supporters.
With the current City squad appearing as depleted and lacking any real responsibility or leadership, I will be taking a look at seven ex-Bradforians who would be welcomed back at Valley Parade under Stuart McCall (whilst considering realism as well).
Charlie Wyke- the former Bradford forward joined the club to replace City legend James Hanson back in 2017 for an undisclosed fee from Carlisle United. He was immediately given the number nine shirt- which of course carries the weight of expectation. Upon leaving the club in 2018 to League One outfit Sunderland he has failed to truly impress the Black Cats supporters and is out of favour under Phil Parkinson after scoring just nine goals in 48 games, and a loan deal may be possible to help regain his confidence and form he possessed under McCall back in 2017.
Romain Vincelot- a tough, ball winning defensive midfielder, Vincelot proved himself as captain under McCall and led the Bantams out against Millwall in the play-off final, only to suffer heartbreak. His passion was never once questionable for the club and it is clear that he is up for the fight to wear the shirt with pride. Currently at Shrewsbury Town, he has suffered with injury problems and has therefore been limited to just five appearances for the Salops, but at the age of 34 he could be an excellent cheap option for City and the captain that the Bantams need right now.
Nicky Law- Law has always held a close relationship with McCall having been managed by him at a number of different clubs and has proven that he suits City's style of play. At the age of 31, Law is held in high regard by current club Exeter City but is out of contract at the end of the season so perhaps McCall could convince his former man to return to Valley Parade on a free transfer?
Tom Thorpe- admittedly, a slightly controversial one, as the defender was only ever on loan and never really shone in the squad. However, since departing Bradford Thorpe went on to impress in defence at Bolton Wanderers on a season long loan, making 21 appearances, before being released by parent club Rotherham United. Thorpe enjoyed a stint in India for ATK (whose stadium holds 85k) and has since been a free agent. There's no denying that Thorpe would not be a fine addition in League Two, and at the age of 27 he is just coming into the prime of his career.
Greg Leigh- perhaps slightly a bit unrealistic, but Leigh was always a bright player for the Bantams back in 2015 at the left-back role. With Connor Wood having an outstanding season for Bradford it is likely interest from higher division clubs will be high and so McCall may be looking for a new defender. Leigh is currently finishing up a loan spell with Aberdeen but his parent club NAC Breda may be looking for another loan alternative.
Tony McMahon- the right-back position this season has been one major weakness in the City ranks with Henley and Mellor becoming somewhat scapegoats due to poor performances and Joe Riley's endless injury trauma it is likely that McCall will be looking into the free agents for a right-back to fill the void. McMahon was always a fan favourite and has a good relationship with McCall having worked for him at City and Scunthorpe United respectively. Despite being the age of 33, League Two right now is probably his level and would be a cheap option for the Bantams in their push for promotion.
Andy Halliday- part of the memorable day where City defeated Premier League giants Chelse 4-2 back in 2015, the Rangers man is out of contract at the end of 2019/20 season. Like McCall, he holds Rangers and City very close to his heart and would undoubtedly fight for the shirt whilst also showing off the leadership skills he possesses. He is often in the media for rallying the Rangers players into performances and would be a real asset in League Two, but unfortunately it appears unlikely as higher division clubs will most likely be vying for his signature due to him still playing for Rangers to this day.
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