Thursday 31 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Carbone fined £80,000

Benito Carbone has been given the highest fine in the history of Bradford City, forfeiting two weeks of his reported £40,000 a week after refusing a place on the subs bench for Tuesday night's game with Preston. Carbone has also been warned about his future conduct at Valley Parade.

The Italian transfer window closed today with Carbone still at Bradford. Should he leave VP he will not be returning to Italy until the summer at least.

Carbone back for Saturday?

Nicky Law has said he will consider picking Benito Carbone for the weekend trip to Grimsby "I don't see why he can't be considered for the weekend. I'm very disappointed and I still can't believe that it's actually happened. He has not missed any training sessions or anything like that. We've spoken to him and a decision will be made over the next couple of days about what to do next. Carbone was all right about it."

Muggleton stays another week

Carl Muggleton has extended his loan with City to a fifth week. The fact that City want to only keep the keeper for the week and have not stretched his loan for another month to be sure of Gary Walsh's fitness suggests that Nicky Law may have a loan signing in mind to replace Muggleton at the club.

Jakes back Gareth

Wayne Jacobs has offered his support to young Bradford lad Gareth Gates in ITV's Popstars. "I wish Gareth all the best- his performances have been fantastic and I hope he wins the competition. His success is fantastic for the city. It's great to have a good news story associated with Bradford at last, and we are all urging him on to win it." said City's 500 game man. While not "tarting it on the front of the papers" Gates sings with the Bradford Cathedral choir where City host the annual Christmas service.

Caldwell's brother joins Hibs

Stephen Caldwell's brother Gary, who is also a Newcastle United player, has also left St James' Park on loan. Gary has join Hibs.

Wednesday 30 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Gunnar to leave in the summer

City's veteran right back Gunnar Halle has decided to return to his home land of Norway this summer and not seek a new contract at Bradford City. He plans to retire but has asked the club Lillestrom, who have been interested in the right back, to offer him a player/coach role. Said Gunnar "I have to speak a bit with the club in England first (I think he means us- BfB), but, as I said, I'm only going home, but playing in the Champions League qualifiers is also tempting. It's nice to hear that they want me, but we have to see what happens."

Beni back to Derby?

Following his toys out of the pram routine it seems sure that Benito Carbone will be seeking a move away from City and that City will try hasten his departure. New Derby boss John Gregory is a confirmed Carbone fan and may be interested in taking the Italian back to the club that rejected him after three months loan earlier this month.

Everyone loses as Beni walks away

With Benito Carbone seemingly having closed the door on continung his career at City after walking out before last night's 1-0 defeat by Preston BfB Columnist Michael Wood comments Everyone loses as Beni walks away from Valley Parade

Beni "went absolutely mental"

More is coming out on Benito Carbone's walk out of Valley Parade last night with a nameless player filling in the details for the City fans saying that after the team had been pinned up and Carbone's name was on the list of substitutes, Carbone "went absolutely mental" claiming that his place in the team had been taken by Andy Tod and that he would not be a substitute behind that big Scot.

Secretary suspended

Bradford City's club secretary Jon Pollard has been suspended on full pay pending the outcome of a police investigation into allegations of indecency. BfB hopes that this matter can be dealt with swiftly for the good of all concerned.

Richmond ally is sacked

Coventry City's Bryan Richardson, who is perhaps Geoffrey Richmond's closest ally in football, has been sacked from his posts as the Sky Blue's chairman and Chief Exec. With a small section of City fans calling for the head of the City chairman it may be interesting to watch the progress of Coventry without Richardson. The section of fan's who would do without Richmond offer no idea as to what to install in the chairman's place. Coventry face a similar situation.

Seething Law on new faces, Carbone, and why he feels sorry for you

Nicky Law has threatened the City playing squad following last night's defeat by Preston saying "That game showed what's wrong at this football club, We need a change of personnel, a different type of player that's going to have a go from the first minute. I don't think five or six of our players did that. I've told them that in the dressing room. They need to go away and have a long hard look at themselves. There's a big job to do. Unless these players change their way of thinking then obviously I'll have to look to bring people in who want to do that. When players are on decent contracts they aren't going to make it easy to move them on elsewhere - but I shall be doing my best to bring in some new faces for the summer."

Law was vehement in his criticism of walk away Benito Carbone saying "He's let the people of Bradford down and he will have to face the consequences. I would think there are rules laid down and they have to be stuck to whether it's me, an apprentice or a top player. There isn't one set of rules for everybody else and another for one certain person. If he'd been on the bench, he'd have probably been on at half time. But if he decides he doesn't want to play then there's not much I can do - I can't physically make him play. The money aspect is irrelevant; you are coming in to do a job of work. What job do you do when you refuse to do what you're asked? In any other job you wouldn't be there next day. Would anybody want a player who refuses to play if he's not in the team? Who picks the team?"

Law concluded "I feel sorry for the people who've come here and paid hard-earned money to watch that, I will always stick up for players if they give me 150 per cent and have a right good go. They can have a bad day and you accept that - but not a level of performance like that."

Tuesday 29 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Beni walks out

Nicky Law has confirmed that Benito Carbone walked out of Valley Parade after being told he would be on the bench for the game with Preston. "Beni was on the bench, but refused to go on the bench" said Law. Carbone face discipline, probably a fine of two week's wages (£80,000, enough to up the bid for Jamie Burt and Ian Breckin).

At the game rumour around Valley Parade had it that Benito Carbone had a blazing row with City's assistant manager Ian Banks when Nicky Law's number two, who was standing in for the manager following Law's operation earlier in the day, told the Italian that he would only be on the bench for the game with Preston. Beni is said to have walked out of Valley Parade "in a huff".

Wretched City lose to Preston

A rubbish display, a rubbish result as City go down 1-0 at home to Preston North End.

Monday 28 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

He is back

Benito Carbone is set to wear the claret and amber of Bradford City in Tuesday night's game with Preston, a sight that many City fans thought they would never see. Carbone looked certain to have played his last game for City when he left for Derby County but as with his send offs at the end of last season, Carbone always seems to come back.

The Italian should squeeze into City's Robbie Blake-less forward line but may find himself employed on the left hand side in the role that Gareth Grant had been playing. Gary Locke misses the game with suspension allowing Stuart McCall to return to the inner midfield alongside Lee Sharpe and Claus Jorgensen.

Jamie on his way to Brum?

Birmingham City are reportedly ready to offer City £300,000 for winger Jamie Lawrence. The bid, which falls short of the £750,000 City asked Paul Jewell's Sheffield Wednesday for but is higher than the £250,000 that the former City boss has rejected, is likely to be accepted by Nicky Law for a fringe player. Lawrence is popular amongst City fans but with the management keen to cut the age of the squad it is likely that should Lawrence want the move, City would not stand in his way.

Richmond: Jefferies on his way down

Geoffrey Richmond has heaped praise on City boss Nicky Law while taking a sly dig at former boss Jim Jefferies. " A key part in the decision to offer Nicky the job was the contrast between the attitude of the Nicky Laws of this world who are on the way up and the attitude of certain managers who might be on the way down."

Continuing his praise of Law Richmond spoke about the mood in the dressing room saying "I've had feedback from agents of our players and that has been revealing and very complimentary. There is a contrast which is really a breath of fresh air."

The cut of Grant's jib

Gareth Grant has won favour at BfB with his bold claim "We'll definitely make the play-offs". Grant has been given a second(?) lease of life under Nicky Law and hopes to turn his recent form into a new deal at Valley Parade. "I'm playing for a new contract as mine is up in the summer. But Bradford is the place where I want to be. Now I just want to play as many games as I can, make a spot my own and earn a new contract."

Sunday 27 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

City after Boston's Elding?

City's non league scout Steve Daniels is believed to have pointing the Bantams in the direction of Boston United 20 year old striker Anthony Elding. Elding, who has spent time at the Nottingham Forest Centre of Excellence, Grimsby Town Academy and Lincoln City Academy before joining is hometown club, has had interest from as far as Celtic and as high as Everton. He is described as "Amazing" and "Outstanding" in various sections of the non league media who praise his strength and eye for goal.

Elding scored twice for Bolton Wanderers reserves in a trial game recently.

Saturday 26 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Breckin wants Bradford move

Chesterfield defender Ian Breckin has called for his former boss Nicky Law to make another offer for him saying "I would jump at the chance. I've always got on well with Nicky and if I could play again for him at Bradford it would be great. I feel stuck in the middle at the moment. I've spoken to the manager here and they don't deem Bradford's offer to be reasonable. I'm a bit upset about it and it is a difficult situation. When a club like Bradford come in for you, it's a great opportunity to play at a higher level."

"I'm 26 now and I feel I should be playing a bit higher up. Chesterfield want to hold out for what they think I am worth but they have to be realistic. I've got one more year on my contract after this one and if nothing happens before next season, I could end up leaving for nothing. I desperately want to play at a higher level, especially if the chance came for me at Bradford."

Law had a bid for £225,000 for Breckin and team mate Jamie Burt rejected saying he would not be held to ransom for the players. The Saltergate club may be more flexible on their valuation of between £300,000 and £400,000 now the player has made it clear he would like the move. Expect a revised City offer soon.

TISWAF

BfB Saturday without football thanks to the Walsall defeat. BfB presents The Bright Young Things of Bradford City, a retrospective of the young players who have come out of Valley Parade.

Friday 25 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Beni has a week to get an Italian club

Should Benito Carbone not sign for an Italian club before their transfer window closes in a week's time then he would seem set to stay at City until at least June 2002. There has been little interest in Carbone since he returned from Derby County ten days ago and according to Nicky Law, there will not be unless the Italian performs on the field. Contrary to what has been said in some sections of the City supporting media BfB believes that Carbone is good enough to trounce defences in this division a he did Gillingham's in September.

Interest in Carbone could come from Derby County if confirmed Carbone fan John Gregory gets the Pride Park job following his resignation from Aston Villa but, for Tuesday at least, Carbone is set to face Preston North End at Valley Parade. In the Italian's first game at Valley Parade for Sheffield Wednesday Carbone spent most of his time attacking from the left wing, he could take that position once again in Nicky Law's 451.

Blake has joined Burnley

Robbie Blake has completed his move to Burnley. Read Adam Hepton's Final Goodbye to a member of the 14 who scored the goal that sent City into the Premiership at Wolves. At £1m Robbie Blake, a £325,000 signing by Chris Kamara some five years ago, is City's 7th highest sale.

Thursday 24 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Blake will join Burnley within 48 hours

Robbie Blake is believed to have agreed terms with Burnley and will seal his move to Turf Moor on Thursday night or Friday morning should he pass a medical. Blake will cost Burnley £1m plus an extra £250,000 should they get promoted.

With Benito Carbone also on his way out Nicky Law now has limited striking options and is expected to relaunch his bid for Jamie Burt of Chesterfield.

Reserves lose to Boro

Mark Prudhoe's first game as reserve team manager saw City lose 3-0 to Middlesborough. Dean Windass scored for the home side, Benito Carbone was unimpressive on his return to claret and amber. Gareth Whalley also returned to action, but thinks it will be another week before he is ready for the first team.

Wednesday 23 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Carbone on being back at Bradford

Benito Carbone has spoken about being back at Valley Parade following his loan at Derby. "The lads have given me a good welcome. It's no problem because I have played with them for a year and a half and I've settled down again straight away. Derby was a good time for me, although their results stayed the same, but now I don't mind being back at Bradford. I have never asked to leave them and I'm happy to be here again. I think the new manager is good. I've trained with him twice and can see the difference already, we work hard and we work with the ball which is very important. I've just spoken to him for five minutes. When he wants to speak with me I'm ready to talk about anything. It's my pleasure to be playing with these lads again because I love them. Whether it is in the First Division or the Premier League, it is not a problem. And I'm happy to see my old fans again. They have been good to me before and I'm looking forward to playing for them again."

Vaughan on trial

City have taken 20 year old goalkeeper Nathan Vaughan on trial from non-League Willenhall Town. He has also been on trial at Queens Park Rangers.

Tuesday 22 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

McCall: Give me one more year

City skipper Stuart McCall wants one more season at Valley Parade before hanging up his boots. McCall called Geoffrey Richmond on Monday night upset at the way his defence in court to a speeding charge had been twisted into a statement that he was leaving the club. Richmond said "Stuart rang me at home last night distraught at the way he had been misquoted. He has done an interview with a local newspaper already saying he had been badly misquoted following his statement. Stuart has made no decision yet on his future and there has certainly been no decision made by the club - and there won't be until later in the season."

McCall made his ambitions very clear saying "Nothing would give me greater pleasure than sitting down in the summer and signing another deal. And if I can play every game between now and then, perhaps I might get that opportunity. Obviously I'm 38 in June and I think there's a time when the club have to look forward. I've had a great association with Bradford City but things don't go on forever in football and I wouldn't want to carry on to the stage where I became an embarrassment but if there is a slight chance of staying here for another year and my body still feels able, it would make me the happiest person ever. It's been a very disappointing season for the team and if somebody had said before the start that we would be this low down, I would have been gutted. From a personal point of view I was delighted to be involved in the whole first half of the season, playing all 23 games, which is something the previous manager felt I wouldn't be able to do. Now Nicky Law has come in with something to prove and is going about things in a very positive way. And I will be doing everything I can to support him all the way.

Speaking about the possibility of going into coaching McCall said "Sometimes in football it's being in the right place at the right time but I think it would be better to get my grounding in the lower divisions. Great managers like Alex Ferguson, Martin O'Neill and Graham Taylor all started at the bottom and worked their way upwards. But that is not something I am thinking about right now. There are still 16 games to go and a lot can happen in that time. Only a couple of the players can really say they have done themselves justice this season. We have under-achieved but there is still time to put that right. Our main priority is to avoid getting involved in a relegation fight. We're not getting carried away after picking up four points out of six but it's a start and if we can build on that, then who knows what can happen."

Law puts Sharpe in the shop window

Nicky Law has showered praise on Lee Sharpe, encouraging Premiership clubs to look at City's midfielder. The City manager said "There are not too many Lee Sharpe's in this division. I still feel by looking at him and the way he performs and the way he has trained lately that I would not be surprised if he could not go back and play in the Premiership."

Breckin and Burt coming to City

Nicky Law has told Chesterfield that he will not enter a bidding war for Ian Breckin and Jamie Burt. Their boss says that he has got three clubs interested in them and that he can get between £300,000 and £400,000 for them. If that is the case then good luck to them. I am not going to get into a bargaining match. If we do not get them we will search elsewhere." said the City manager. There is speculation that Chesterfield have no other interested parties and were attempting to drive up the price for the two players. With Robbie Blake and Benito Carbone on close to leaving the club City could do with Burt to add craft to the forward line and with City still conceding goals at Jim Jefferies rates City fans may argue that £300,000 to £400,000 is not too much for a player described as the best defender in the second division.

Benito Carbone is on course to wear the claret and amber of Bradford City at least once more with his inclusion in Mark Prudhoe's first reserve squad for the trip to Middlesbrough on Wednesday night. Ironically Carbone will line up in the FA Premiership Reserve League North against Dean Windass, a match up neither of the them would have predicted when they were beating Chelsea 2-0 in August 2000.

Gareth Whalley is hoping to make a return from a long lay off with injury. Jamie Lawrence, Andy Tod and Wayne Jacobs are also scheduled to play.

Monday 21 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

McCall to leave the Bantams?

Stuart McCall does not believe that City will offer him a new contract next season but hopes to find another club. Said McCall "If the gaffer decides that I don't merit selection that will be 100 per cent fine by me, and he'll receive all the backing and support I can give until my contract runs out. I will not be getting another contract at Bradford but I will be visiting other clubs and hopefully getting interviews." McCall said the we would be visiting other clubs to try secure a deal or a coaching deal for the expiry of his contract at City in June. McCall's comments were in the context of a speeding hearing in which the City skipper was pleading to keep his licence.

Burnley: Blake deal still ongoing

Burnley are insisting that talks are ongoing with Robbie Blake over the £1m move that will see the City man go to Turf Moor. Rumours suggest that Blake has turned down the Burnley offer as too little.

Richmond: The Next Five Years

Geoffrey Richmond has unveiled his outline for the next five years at Bradford City. Briefly Richmond plan is:

The City chairman hinted that once he had achieved these objectives he would stand down and allow someone else to take over the day to day running of the club. He would say connected with the club but not be chairman.

Richmond had previously spoken of a five year plan to get the club into the Premiership. That plan, started in 1994, concluded in 1999 and many feel that the club has drifted since. The new plan gives the Bantams a rallying point.

Breckin and Burt offers withdrawn

As Robbie Blake looks like staying at Bradford City player for the foreseeable future City's offer for Chesterfield pair Ian Breckin and Jamie Burt has been withdrawn until such a time when Law can fund improved offers.

Thorpe move in the summer

Nicky Law is being linked with a summer move for Bristol City's then out of contract Tony Thorpe.

Locke needs an operation

Gary Locke needs an operation on his groin but will delay it until the end of the season.

Richmond on league restructuring

Geoffrey Richmond laughed off the idea that the football league would be reginalised but did confirm that the FL board were considering a number of options. "There is a restructuring debate going on which clearly will continue and will undoubtedly climax prior to the TV deal. That will probably act as a catalyst for change. Bearing in mind discussions for the next deal will start in a little over 12 months, I expect some sort of proposal to be considered by all parties within that time."

Two goal Ward's red mist

The weekend's two goal man Ashley Ward spoke of his battle with former Barnsley team mate Chris Morgan that almost resulted in the City striker getting sent off. "I was getting a bit worried. I seemed to be heading towards a red card and couldn't seem to stop myself getting there."

Law's handbag at Ref

Nicky Law was angry at ref Barry Knight after Saturday's penalty decision that gave Barnsley an equaliser in the 3-3. "The referee has obviously never played football in his life or he would have realised what Dyer was trying to do. Then it just annoys you when you see him coming off laughing and joking. Obviously someone has made a comment about the decision and he finds it quite funny. Well I don't. It's people's jobs on the line and it's not a matter for laughing and joking about."

Sunday 20 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Blake deal off?

Rumour in Burnley has it that Robbie Blake's move to Turf Moor from City for £1m has broken down owing to the player's excessive wage demands and his agent's fee requirements. It is reported that Burnley have signed Belgian World Cup striker Bob Peeters on loan from Vitesse Arnhem.

Saturday 19 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

City claw back to share six goals with Barnsley

Two late goals by Ashley Ward give City a 3-3 draw at Barnsley with Lee Sharpe in excellent form.

Sell on clauses the key to Breckin and Burt deals

Rotherham United have a 50% sell on clause on City target Ian Breckin, something that is causing consternation for Chesterfield who are badly in need of funds as they start life as a new company running the football club. Similarly the Spireites are keen to get a sell on clause on Jamie Burt, a player who Nicky Law described as potentially being worth £1m.

Nicky Law has vowed to not be held to ransom by Chesterfield over the two players and added with tongue in cheek, that he would have taken £225,000 for the two players had he still been manager at Saltergate.

City to lose the Windass cash?

Ipswich Town's new year revival has seen Middlesbrough drop into the bottom three of the Premiership and little about them suggests that they are equipped to get out of danger. Should they go down City will lose £500,000 from the transfer of Dean Windass. City have previously been offered deals for Windass to return to Valley Parade but such overtures were rejected by Jim Jefferies. Should a similar deal come round Nicky Law may feel differently.

Friday 18 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

City appoint new chief scout

City have appointed Steve Daniels to the role of Chief Scout at Valley Parade. Daniels is the former manager of Bromsgrove Rovers and has worked at Crystal Palace during his time in football. His remit at Bradford City will be to scour the non-league and lower divisions for young players that City can bring on in the same way that £1m sale Robbie Blake was developed, although hopefully with fewer drink driving charges, TV sulks, contract disputes and loans at Nottingham Forest along the way. It is hoped that these young players will link up with the new developments in that area that Geoffrey Richmond is hoping to announce soon.

Nicky Law sung the new man's praises saying "It is good to have Steve with me as he has spent a fair bit of time on the non-League scene and knows the clubs and players well. I have said since I arrived here that we badly need somebody who is able to bring in younger players from these clubs and now we have Steve on board we hopefully be able to achieve that".

The previous chief scout left the Bantams because, it is said, a string of managers going back to Paul Jewell ignored his suggestions of players to sign.

Caldwell beats a drum

Stephen Caldwell has spoken in welcomingly optimistic terms about the rest of the season at Valley Parade: "If we can make the play-offs it would be great and you can't rule it out. I don't know what will happen when the loan expires but while I'm here I want to be part of getting us right back up that table again."

Ward/Richmond disagree on Blake

Ashley Ward thinks that strike partner Robbie Blake will be a great success in the future following his move to Burnley, Geoffrey Richmond thinks he is a good first division player who did not deliver the goods in the Premiership. Who is right only time will tell.

Second bid for Burt and Breckin

Geoffrey Richmond confirmed that Chesterfield's administrators had turned down City's bid for Jamie Burt and Ian Breckin but commented "We'll have another look at it after the weekend."

Thursday 17 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Breckin and Burt for £300,000?

It is believed that Chesterfield's administrators Kidsons will accept a combined fee of between £275,00 and £300,000 for Ian Breckin and Jamie Burt. City have offered £225,000, a bid that has been described as Kidsons as "derisory and worthy of no further comment."

Chesterfield also described City's offer of £225,000 as "derisory", however, it is probable that Nicky Law and the Spireite's board discussed the value of Breckin and that City's bid is based on the figures that Law is privy to. Expect an improved bid later from the Bantams to be accepted in order to give Chesterfield a more firm footing once they come out of administration.

City are unchallenged in the signature of Burt, who has only been at Chesterfield for five weeks, but Breckin is believed to have interested West Brom and Preston, although neither have made offers.

Hitzlsperger on a Bosman?

Aston Villa's German midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger is available on a Bosman transfer at the end of the season. Should confirmed Hitzlsperger fan Nicky Law want to sign the player he may wait until the Summer should the 19 year old not agree a new contract at Villa Park.

Richmond on the Blake money

Geoffrey Richmond has said that although Nicky Law will have some of the funds from the sale of Robbie Blake, much of the cash will be saved until the summer. "There is no need to rush and blow it all for the sake of it. There is not an endless pot of money. There are going to be a lot of players available in the summer so if we can stabilise between now and then, we can look to change things around for next season."

Wednesday 16 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Blake out, Breckin & Burt in?

Robbie Blake is set to join Burnley for £1m plus £250,000 should the Clarets be promoted while the striker is with them and when he does Nicky Law will make his first City signings, going back to his former club Chesterfield for centreback Ian Breckin and 21 year old striker Jamie Burt. Law made a combined offer of £200,000 for the players on Wednesday.

Blake asked to join Burnley six weeks ago and with the club having received an acceptable offer yesterday, Blake confirmed to Nicky Law that he would rather play at Turf Moor than Valley Parade.

Blake, one of the fourteen, has enjoyed a turbulent career with City signing from Darlington in a team that struggled to stay in the first division before going on to be one of the key men in promotion to the Premiership. He infamously fell out with the club over a new contract Blake stating that he would like paying as a Premiership player, something a move to another first division club and his relatively poor performances in the top flight would suggest should not have been the case. Blake returned to the side under Jim Jefferies and has been in excellent form over the past three months.

Chairman Geoffrey Richmond commented "We will be extremely sorry to lose the services of a very talented player who perhaps has not achieved his full potential while here at Bradford City. We do not really want to lose him but it has always been the club's policy not to stand in the way of an unhappy player. The money received from the sale will be made available to Nicky Law to bring new players into the club during the remainder of this season and in the summer." Law's first target would seem to be a move to sow up for Mansfield's Chris Greenacre on a Bosman transfer at the end of the season. City were interested in signing Aberdeen's Robbie Winters, a similar player to Blake, although that move may have died with Jim Jefferies leaving.

In the short term Benito Carbone, Juanjo and Gareth Grant could all stake claims for Blake's place in the side. Youngster Danny Forrest may also get a chance.

Breckin, who has been the Spireite's player of the season for the past three year, will join City once the Blake deal goes through and is reported to be valued at £150,000.

Jamie Burt, valued at £50,000, is a former Newcastle United youth. Burt has travelled far in his short career number Carlisle United, Whitby Town, Aberdeen, Bridlington Town, Edghill and Scarborough amoungst his clubs.

Law is expected have to haggle for his players but with Chesterfield in money problems at the moment, is expected to be able to get both signings for something like the figure he has offered.

Robbie Blake: A Final Goodbye

BfB welcomes Adam Hepton to the ranks of our columnists as he says A Final Goodbye to Robbie Blake.

So no one else cared before Richmond?

BfB columnist Roland Harris wrote an article called A home truth for you if you want Richmond out? that prompted Jon Blakely to respond So no one else cared before Richmond?.

Law not denying interest in Hitzlsperger

Nicky Law has denied making an approach for Aston Villa midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger on loan saying "I had the lad on loan when I was at Chesterfield but have certainly not spoken to anybody at Aston Villa about bringing him here. Anyway I couldn't even if I wanted to as we already have two players in on loan at the present time." Law makes no comment as to if he would like sign to the player, however, with the roster of fowards at the club set to reduce by two this month, the managers targets are more likely to be in that position.

Grant to replace Blake?

Nicky Law has hinted that Gareth grant will get a long term chance to replace Robbie Blake at City. Speaking of Grant Law said "The one thing that kills you is pace. You haven't got to be the greatest player if you've got speed, it puts the opposition on the back foot straight away. Gareth has the pace to put fear into defenders and I thought he did his job well on Saturday. He did everything asked of him and at one stage he went back to make a crunching tackle in defence. Maybe in the past Gareth has never been given the chance to really fulfil his potential."

Whalley back at end of the month

Gareth Whalley, the forgotten man of the City midfield, hopes to be back from injury for next Wednesday's reserve game.

Tuesday 15 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Hitzlsperger loan rejected by Villa

Aston Villa have turned down City's request to take 19 year old midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger on loan. The German played under Law earlier in the season during his time in charge at Chesterfield but after a quiet start to his career in English football John Gregory believes that the player is close to the Villa first team squad.

OB off from Newcastle?

Newcastle, who sit second in the Premiership, agreed to City's request of a sell on clause in the deal that took Andy O'Brien to St James' Park. It is not know how much of a percentage City would get of any O'Brien sale however, with the Mags riding high and showing signs of staying in the top ten for the forseeable future, it is hard to see why they would sell the player which perhaps is why they agreed to the deal.

It has also emerged that City had to pay £600,000 of the £1.5 fee recieved for David Hopkin to the player himself as a contract pay off.

City boast highest Asian following in the UK

City have revealled that around 700 season ticket holders describe themsleves as Asian, this represents the highest percentage of Asian season ticket holders in the country and compares favourabiliy to the 16 the club had when Geoffrey Richmond arrived in 1994.

Richmond: I'm staying

Geoffrey Richmond has firmed rebutted the suggestion that he would be leaving Bradford City or that the board had done anything improper in taking dividend payments of £8m over the past two years, the only dividends the club has paid out since GR's arrival eight years ago. "I'm being urged by my family to put two fingers up and walk away. But I'm not going to do so because I am no quitter. I'm under no illusions about my level of popularity at this moment and if it were to reach a stage where I felt my position was untenable I wouldn't need to be told what to do. That's not a question of throwing my toys out the pram, I've said that from the first day I arrived. If I ever lose the support of the majority and I decide it is no longer worthwhile then I will go. And my family would have a party the same night to celebrate but I'm not a quitter and I don't want to walk away and I won't."

"There is not a lot wrong that a few wins and a great end of season can't put right. This is not a new story but it has become an issue at a time when the team on the field are having a horrendous time of it, when money is tight and limited for new signings, and when a manager who was popular to many has departed. As I have said, this is perhaps the biggest crisis that has faced Bradford City since I came here. But I'm determined to complete the vision that I had when I came to the club eight years ago. If I didn't believe the club could get back to the Premier League, I shouldn't be sat behind this desk. I believe that in Nicky Law we've got a manager that will take us there. There can be no promises or guarantees because that's the nature of football but I'm certain that we will finish back in the Premier League in the forseeable future. I've been here eight years and I'd love to say that every day has been good but it wouldn't be true. But it's one thing having the disappointment of losing a football match or a series of them, it's quite another to suffer vilification from fans who perhaps don't understand all the facts."

"It cannot be said that the money available for team strengthening or ground improvements were in any way affected. Hindsight is wonderful and nine months later we found ourselves relegated - but as I will stress, the last dividend payment was made when the world looked a rather different place than today. I make no apologies whatsoever for the dividend policy. It was there to reward investors and to hopefully encourage additional ones. Unfortunately that part has been a total failure because new investors are as scarce as ice cream in the desert."

Jonothan Jackson and Michael Wood have both added their voices in support of Geoffrey Richmond and are now joined by Roland Harris who has a home truth for you if you want Richmond out?. BfB has an open policy reguarding columnist comments and would welcome any column that put an anti-Richmond viewpoint, however, no such columns have reached BfB.

Law on Carbone's chance at City

Nicky Law has told returning Benito Carbone that he must show the right attitude if he wants to get back into the Bradford City side. "I'm told that he's a great pro and hopefully he will come back in a positive frame of mind. If he does want to get away there's no point in him returning with a negative attitude. He's got to go out there and if and when he's in the team, he must show what he can do and then people can notice that. The better players you've got, the better chance you have of being successful but you don't do it on ability alone - you have to have the workrate, commitment and character that we've shown on Saturday."

Sharpe most searched

Here at BfB we do not look at our web stats that often, but we did today and we found out that of words typed into search engines to find the BfB site, one name came out on top. It seems that Lee Sharpe is City's biggest web draw. Note also Lewis Emanuel and Mark Bower featuring high and former star Peter Beagrie.

  1. 8.85% lee sharpe
  2. 6.64% benito carbone
  3. 6.64% boyfrombrazil
  4. 5.31% emanuel lewis
  5. 3.54% kevin keegan
  6. 2.21% boy from brazil
  7. 1.77% bradford city football club
  8. 1.77% mark bower
  9. 1.77% peter beagrie
  10. 1.77% wayne jacobs
  11. 1.77% wood column
Greenacre moving in the summer

Mansfield striker Chris Greenacre rejected a move to Sheffield Wednesday and will stay at Field Mill until his contract expires in the summer to move on a Bosman free transfer. Nicky Law has said that City are tracking the player and may make a bid in the summer.

Prudhoe is new reserve manager

Nicky Law has announced that Mark Prudhoe will replace Walter Kidd as City's reserve team manager. He will keep his role as goalkeeping coach and emergency keeper in the Neville Southall mould. Law said of Prudhoe "He has a wealth of experience in the game and knows the players here well which in view of the many recent changes will be good for them and us."

Monday 14 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Richmond bites back

Geoffrey Richmond has bitten back following allegations of improper dividends being paid out to the directors of Bradford City saying that his personal dividends paid equate to around £250,000 per year during his eight years at the club, which is the equivalent to what the club's top earner Benito Carbone receives in one year. "I have been vilified and aim to defend myself, In the eight years that I have been at the club I personally have drawn dividends of £2million which averages earnings of £250,000 per annum, the equivalent of what our top professional footballer earns in a year.

Richmond added: "That is my reward for putting in over 70 hours per week, often to the detriment of my own health. I have taken risks with my own personal wealth to support the club and I will continue to do so. During my first six years at the club I did not receive a salary or even one single penny for my time, expenses or anything else for that matter. It is highly unlikely that any further dividend will be paid until we are in the Premiership or on a sound financial position."

"In August 2000 dividends paid amounted to £3.4million. This was just after we had gained promotion to the Premiership and at a time when we invested in the team. We brought in David Hopkin, Beni Carbone, Peter Atherton, Ian Nolan, Ashley Ward and soon to follow was Stan Collymore. We did not anticipate at the time being relegated and payments were made to shareholders who had taken a significant personal risk. It followed on from a dividend of £4million paid 12 months earlier. Other than Professor Rhodes investors were noticeable by their absence. The club has been the subject of an attack that affects me personally."

City linked with Maspero

City are being linked with a swap with Torino with Benito Carbone rejoining his favourite side and Riccardo Maspero, 31 year old Italian midfielder who has fallen out with the club, coming to Valley Parade. It is thought doubtful that Maspero would join a first division club but should there be truth in the story the Italian would come in on significantly less weekly wage than Carbone left.

Law pulls a fast one on Rix

Nicky Law's many team changes for Saturday's win over Portsmouth had Pompey boss Graham Rix all confused. "We didn't know who they were going to play or how" said Rix after the team had changed drastically following the scouted midweek game at Walsall.

Law on Sharpe

Nicky Law has hinted that Lee Sharpe will play a pivotal role in his City sides. "Everyone knows the ability Lee has got and what he's achieved. You don't play for Man United and England if you're a mug and he has done it at the highest level. It's still there for him, he's shown that. He can dictate games and he made it tick on Saturday, not only when he had got the ball but when he hadn't - he won no end of tackles and got himself in good defensive positions. Lee's set his standards. Now he's got to perform like that week in, week out, home and away."

Sharpe on his penalty

Lee Sharpe talked about his chip to the top corner penalty and playing inside midfield "It's a touch of the di Canio's but it's something I practice in training. The keepers always go the wrong way so I just thought I'd try it again. I don't know whether the rest of the boys were expecting it but I bet the manager wasn't. Still it was nice to get a goal again and very important that we won which was much needed. I thought the team were a little bit more organised and we knew who we were picking up and looking after. It worked well. I thoroughly enjoyed it and prefer being in the middle of the park. It allows me to get on the ball and get involved a lot more."

GR back to court

Geoffrey Richmond will issue a strong denial of Yorkshire Post write Jeremy Cross's article suggesting that the directors of Bradford City have taken inappropriate dividends from the club. The club describes the article as being "littered with harmful inaccuracies". All damages received will be paid to the Burns Unit at the Bradford Royal Infirmary. GR will appear on Look North to talk over the allegations.

Law confirms City's interest in Greenacre

Nicky Law has confirmed himself as an admirer of Mansfield forward Chris Greenacre. Law commented "He's a talented player and I'd be interested in players of that calibre. There's no real approach at the moment. He's just someone we'll keep track of."

Sunday 13 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Gunnar set to return to Norway

Gunnar Halle hopes to make a decision on his future at City soon, with a return to Norway to take up a coaching role probable. Halle commented: "The plan is that the family should return to Norway in the summer, but I have a tiny little opening for another season. To be honest I don't know if I will take another season, but there is an opening. Perhaps I will ask Bradford, perhaps they will ask me, but I have to know soon. It's most likely that I will return to Norway. Then I will retire and try myself as a coach, if that is possible."

Halle's contract with City expires at the end of the season along with Stuart McCall's and Lee Sharpe's. Sharpe has been linked with a move to Millwall.

Law celebrates his first win

City completed the double over Portsmouth with a 3-1 win that saw the visitors reduced to nine men.

Beni going home

Torino have enquired about taking Benito Carbone back to the club he started his career with and the Italian looks set to leave Valley Parade before the end of January. "We've had a couple of inquiries in the last few days from abroad, asking about the player's availability and details of his contract. And I think there will be other inquiries from clubs, including others in the English Premiership, very shortly" confirmed Geoffrey Richmond. "I don't think in another month's time he will be at Bradford City."

West Ham United are one of the teams being linked with Carbone should Beni-buddy Di Canio join Manchester United. City are expected to ask for £1.5m for the player who was paid a £2m signing on fee in the Summer of 2000.

Richmond Out? Are You Completely Off Your Head?

With the Bradford City AGM coming up next week BfB columnist Jonathan Jackson puts weight behind the current chaimran saying Geoffrey Richmond Out? Are You Completely Off Your Head?

Law wants scouting for non-league players

Nicky Law is to meet with GR on Monday with a view to appointing a chief scout at City with a remit of scouring the lower leagues and non-leagues for players. "We have a man in mind who knows that level." said Law.

More reasons?

Rumours continue about the potential involvement of Bradford based shopping millionaire, well, £1.35 billionaire to be fair, Ken Morrison in Bradford City. Most recent suggestion has Morrison buying out the Rhodes family and backing the clubs with funds with Geoffrey Richmond continuing as City's chairman and chief executive.

Friday 11 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Law talks relegation talk

Nicky Law has made a clear assessment of his targets at City. "Our first priority must be to reach 50 points which should be the safety mark. That's six wins and the sooner we can get them the better."

Caldwell returns to Valley Parade

Newcastle defender Stephen Caldwell has returned to Valley Parade for a further month of loan ten days after leaving the club when his previous deal ran out. He is expected to go back to the centre of the back four in Saturday's side.

Banks makes the right noises

City's new assistant manager Ian Banks cut to the nub of the problems with the performance against Walsall on Tuesday night "Supporters aren't daft and we're not going to defend a performance like the one at Walsall. The fans are intelligent enough to see what's going on and didn't feel the passion was there. I wouldn't have swapped any of Walsall's players for ours but they were organised, determined and wanted it more."

In the opening weeks of their tenure at Valley Parade Banks has impressed. His comment on the comparative quality of the teams, that he would not swap any of the players in the Walsall side, being the latest of a number of insightful comments.

Jakes reaches 500

Wayne Jacobs will make his 500 appearance in professional football should he play against Portsmouth on Saturday. Jacobs said of the milestone "I've had a good career and long may it continue. I've had good times at all the clubs I've been at, but the best times have come since I've been at Bradford City. There've been a lot of highlights; the two promotions, turning it round at Blackpool in the play-offs, playing at Wembley, staying up against QPR, promotion at Wolves and staying up the first year in the Premiership. I've thoroughly enjoyed my time here."

Thursday 10 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Richmond out?

There is a growing resentment at Valley Parade with chairman Geoffrey Richmond's reluctance to invest in the team. BfB editor Michael Wood nails his colours firmly to the mast when he says "I fear for City if the Richmond Out brigade find a voice on Saturday"

Law linked with Greenacre move

Nicky Law is likely to make his first signing this week and although he is trying to bring in a defender on loan there is a link between City and Mansfield's 21 goal striker Chris Greenacre. Greenacre, who is being chased by Paul Jewell's Wigan and other clubs, would cost City £350,000, an affordable fee even given the Bantams current cash plight.

Wetherall ordered to rest another month

David Wetherall has been ordered to rest his troublesome groin injury for another month. The defender is in light training.

Beni is back

Benito Carbone has returned to City having played his final game for Derby County. Pride Park Chief Executive Keith Loring said "We appreciate what Beni has done for us during his three months with Derby County and would like to thank him for his contribution but it would be unfeasible for us to make the move permanent.". Carbone is suspended for the remainder of his loan at Derby and is due to report back to City on the 20th of January but joined his Valley Parade team mates in training today.

Nicky Law has said that the club can not afford to keep Carbone but confirmed he would be glad of the extra man in his depleted squad. It is thought that Beni will pursue a move to the Italian side he started his career with, Torino, before the end of the month when the transfer window in Italy closes.

Blake out for three weeks

Robbie Blake tore a stomach muscle in the cup defeat at Walsall and will beout for three weeks.

Lawrence and Halle back as reserves share six goals with Bolton

City's reserve side drew 3-3 with Bolton Wanderers with Jamie Lawrence and Gunnar Halle making returns from injury. Claus Jorgensen was City's star man, scoring the first and setting up Gareth Grant and Kevin Sanasy for others.

GR: We need you

Geoffrey Richmond has issued a clarion call to City supporters to get behind the Bantams in Saturday's game with Portsmouth and for the rest of the season "Now like never before, we do need the supporters to get behind the team. The fans have been magnificent through the eight years I have been here but I have got to say we are facing potentially the biggest crisis on the field in my time here. I remember saying in my first programme notes: 'United we stand, divided we fall.' That was true then and even more true now.

Caldwell back?

Nicky Law is looking to sign a centreback on loan to cover injuries and would be prepared to resign Stephen Caldwell on loan from Newcastle should his other targets fall through.

Law on new faces

Nicky Law has stated that he hopes to get through the rest of the season with the same squad as City have now, and then bring in players in the Summer. "I'd like to get through the rest of this season and then reassess the situation. We've pretty much got this squad for the rest of the year. I want to change things but anyone worth their salt won't come on a short-term deal so it will take time."

The current City squad is more than capable of staying in the First Division, if only because Stockport and Grimsby have claimed two relegation spots and Walsall and Sheffield Wednesday seem set to fight out the other one. It should be noted that Grimsby aside, the other sides have got positive results against this City team that is (In my humble opinion) capable of winning this league when managed correctly.

Wednesday 09 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Beni coming back?

A nameless source close to the board at Derby County has cast doubt on the Premiership struggler's desire to sign the City man saying "You're talking about £5m to take over the rest of Carbone's contract. If we do that and go down, then we will be in Bradford City's position this time next year. He's done all right but he's played 14 games and scored one goal - for £40,000 a week you want guarantees of more than that."

All of which could see Benito Carbone back in a Bradford City shirt in two weeks time after his loan expires on the 19th, however, it is more likely that Beni will make the move to his former club Torino rather than join new City manager Nicky Law at Valley Parade.

Law wants another midfielder

Nicky Law has revealed that despite injuries to the back four and to the front two he will try strengthen the midfield, bringing in a defensive midfielder. "I'll probably look for something in midfield. If you take Stuart McCall out the equation there isn't really any bite in there." said the City boss. Jim Jefferies had the same thought when he brought in Billy McKinlay in his first week at VP.

Law: I'm very disappointed

New City boss could not hide his disappointment at seeing his side go out of the FA Cup 2-0 at Walsall I'm obviously very disappointed with the performance. We didn't compete enough, defensively we need to improve individually and collectively and I think we could be fitter. We didn't get off to a great start and it was a blow losing Robert Molenaar and Robbie Blake in the first half. Things aren't going to happen overnight but we'll have to stick in there and put in a lot of hard work. I was surprised at how vulnerable we were when we didn't have the ball, and it was quite concerning at how easy it was for them to open us up at times."

Tuesday 08 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

City out of the FA Cup at first hurdle

Nicky Law's first game saw no change of luck for City as Walsall knocked the Bantams out of the FA Cup 2-0 and Robbie Blake and Robert Molenaar were both injured.

Law to sign striker on loan

With Ashley Ward and Robbie Blake out for Saturday's game with Portsmouth Nicky Law has confirmed that he will be looking to bring in a player. "I shall try to get someone in on loan this week." said the new City boss.

Atherton out again

Peter Atherton has been ruled out for the forseeable future following a breakdown in his recovery from a knee injury.

More in the waiting room

The waiting room for the BfB Bradford City Hall of Fame has been expanded with the likes of Peter Downsborough, Trevor Cherry and Dickie Bond ready to be voted for.

Jamie does it for his Dad

Jamie Lawrence has dedicated his Jamaica footballer of the year award to his late Father saying "I've had a very difficult last 12 months but winning this makes up for everything. I'll dedicate it to my dad who died and my mum who I'll make sure will be at the ceremony, though my speech will be short and sweet!". Lawrence is hoping to play for City reserves against Bolton on Wednesday night.

Stuart, Ally and Andy

Stuart McCall will have Ally McCoist and Andy Goram speaking at his testimonial dinner at the Bradford City banqueting suite on Sunday, February 17. One hopes that the highlight of the evening will be Nicky Law getting Stuart to sign a year extension on his current contract.

Monday 07 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Caldwell goes back to Newcastle

Stephen Caldwell has returned to Newcastle following his month's loan at City. Caldwell performed very well at the start of his time at City while playing centreback but faded when he move to right back.

Hornsby the mouse

It has emerged that City's new fitness coach Kevin Hornsby spent some time as Chester the field mouse, Chesterfield's besuited mascot, during his time working in the community scheme at Saltergate. "When I was working...at Chesterfield we created Chester the Fieldmouse as a mascot. " said Hornsby "When the costume arrived we needed someone to get in it, so I put it on and had great fun with it after that. I think it's the only way I would actually get on a professional football field."

"Wearing the suit gets you fit because of the weight" said Hornsby, perhaps looking towards City's out of costume mascot Lenny Berry, the City Gent. "Hopefully I've left that behind, it was a great stepping stone on the road to success. It's on my CV because it does carry a lot of weight with employers."

Law to get Blake defending more

As part of getting City harder to beat Nicky Law intends to get Ashley Ward and Robbie Blake defending from the front in the Ian Rush/Kenny Dalglish sense. "I don't want to take the flair out the side, just make us a more difficult team to beat." said Law "You're not going to take Robbie Blake- a great attacking player that he is- and make him chase centre-halves and full backs everywhere. That would take away what he does but I think he could become a better player if he could add a little bit of that to his game. I just want to make players more aware of their role defensively. When they lose the ball, you stop it at source and then you end up not having to chase back."

Sunday 06 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

City or Walsall face Charlton away

The winner of Tuesday night's City vs Walsall game will go to the Valley to face Charlton in the FA Cup 4th round. City's last game at the Valley was a 2-0 defeat in the Premiership, however, the last game between the clubs ended 2-0 to City at the end of last season with Robbie Blake and Benito Carbone ginving the Bantams the win at Valley Parade.

Joy to the World, Cardiff 2 Leeds United 1

There were many reasons for you Bantam to celebrate Cardiff's 2-1 FA Cup third round win over Leeds: The late winner, David O'Leary losing it in a four letter word way in the car park, the whole giant killing in the last minute thing, the fact that Spenser Prior was at fault for the Leeds goal. All great fun. However, the sight of the day: Michael Duburry trotting on to join "Jonno" Woodgate in a central defensive partnership. As O'Leary says "We have a great team spirit here". I wonder how defensive recriminations go on when the defenders will not speak to each other?

Law watches Carbone, Ellington?

Nicky Law is understood to have taken in the 3-1 home humiliation of Derby County by Bristol Rovers to check up on Benito Carbone, should he return to the club. While there Law may have cast an eye over Bristol Rovers' Nathan Ellington who scored a hat trick to dump the Premiership side out of the cup.

Dearden to join the City set up?

Mansfield Town manager Bill Dearden resigned from his post with the Stags stating that he would be taking a role at a club in a higher division. Some speculation has him joining up with Nicky Law to try to get a youth set up going at Bradford City.

Carbone's playing in the game will leave him Cup tied for the season should he return to City, and should City get through Tuesday night's game with Walsall, or join another English club.

Nicky Law's football 101

Nicky Law has unveiled his plan to get City back into the Premiership. "I'll try to tighten up the defence but without sacrificing the flair." Said the City boss, as if that idea has never crossed the mind of Jim Jefferies.

Friday 04 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Law debut put off until Tuesday

Nicky Law's first game as City boss has been put back three days after he pitch at Walsall was declared unplayable. The game will now be played on Tuesday the 8th.

Law to decide on McCall: Friend or Foe?

Nicky Law has an early chance to decide who much involvement hero and Jim Jefferies smiter Stuart McCall will have at Valley Parade as he looks to fill the vacant slot as Reserve Team manager. McCall is thought to be favourite for the post but should the City skipper refuse another chance to gain some management expeirence, expeirence that could one day be used to put Law out of the big chair at Valley Parade, then Greg "Cyclops" Abbott is next in line to be offered the job.

Jamie scoops gong

City's forgotten winger Jamie Lawrence has been voted Jamaica fan's player of the year beating Derby County's Deon Burton, Onandi Lowe of Rushton & Diamonds, Bolton's Ricardo Gardner, Hull's Ian Goodison and Aaron Lawrence, the goalkeeper with whom Jamie collided to break his arm, ruling himself out of the Bantams side for the past three months.

Kidd shock!

Walter Kidd has shocked Bradford City fans by resigning from the club. The big shock being that most City fans thought he had gone when Jim Jefferies left.

Potter stuff sells well

Harry Potter scarves are doing unprecedented business in the Upfront shops around West Yorkshire. Odder Wizard/Football link that City's claret and amber linking to JK Rowling's boy wizard is the idea that Tolkien stole the name of his Wizard in Lord Of The Rings from the centreforward at his local side, Aston Villa, one Alf Gand. Curious...

Thursday 3 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Chris Waddle joins the BfB Bradford City Hall of Fame

BfB readers have spoken and have added Chris Waddle to the BfB Bradford City Hall of Fame. Please feel free to vote for January's inductee with a certain Brazilian added to the list of potential candidates.

BfB men back Nicky Law

While we may be out of step with the mood of the Bradford fan on the street the good folks at BfB seem pretty happy with Nicky Law. Jon Blakely says he likes City's new boss in his column Hold the front page- City have a new manager while Michael Wood dubs Law the manager with Nothing to lose and everything to prove.

Caldwell back to Newcastle?

Stephen Caldwell is expected to return to Newcastle following a month on loan at VP which saw him start well at centreback but fade when pushed out to right back. As a centreback Caldwell would be a very good signing.

Law's debut on hold

The FA Cup third round tie with Walsall, which was due to be Nicky Law's first game as City boss, has only a "very slim" chance of going ahead this weekend following snow.

Abbott looks to Law's signings

Former City midfielder/headcase Greg Abbott backed the new Bantams management team of Law and Banks and pointed to there experience signing players at Chesterfield "From their time with Chesterfield they will have built up a portfolio of players and know exactly where to search. There may not be a lot of money to spend but there are plenty of bargains about. In Bradford's position they need players who will die for the cause and these two will find them. They've shown that in their previous job. You say Bradford have financial problems but you want to hear some of the horror stories they had to put up with at Chesterfield. Remember, they are used to washing the kit and things like organising hotels and transport - this will seem an easy job compared to some of that."

Law on signing policy

Nicky Law intends to continue Jim Jefferies signing policies that aimed to get a younger squad at Valley Parade. "The way football is going now you don't get by on ability alone, you've got to be able to get round the pitch and with all due respect you need younger players to do that. I think if we can get a balance of good senior pros and younger ones to do the work that will be the key but you need a few in their early 20s because that's where you get the engine running from. The chairman has said that if we feel there are players needed and if it's feasible to do so, then it will be all right. Although I'm obviously aware there isn't massive amounts of money to spend."

End of month stuff

Better later than never the BfB round up of December 2001 in on line.

Wednesday 2 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

The obvious link emerges

New City boss Nicky Law is being linked with a loan move for former team mate and current Southampton misfit Kevin Davies. There are many reasons why Davies will not be joining City. He is expensive, he may be injured and he may not ever have got on with the new City boss. Nevertheless the link is made for the striker who can also play on the right flank.

Beni back home?

Word from Derby has it that Benito Carbone will return to Bradford City following the Pride Park's club refusal to pay the £1.5m asking price the Bantams want for the player.

City paid Carbone a £2m signing on fee when he joined the Bantams in the summer of 2000 and are understood to want to recoup some of that money.

Tuesday 1 January, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Law appointed Bantams manager

Geoffrey Richmond has appointed Chesterfield manager Nicky Law to the job vacated by Jim Jefferies at Valley Parade. Law, who guided the Spiteites to the second division despite a nine point penalty last term is far from the big name choice that many City supporters longed for but possess the ambition that BfB found admirable in Stan Collymore and shows promise as a manager.

Law will perhaps be best known to City fans as the central defender who, in the season City were promoted at Wembley, was involved in a number of spats with Bantam Forward in a game in the April of that season. City won the game 2-1 and went on to knock Law's side out of the sixth play off place.

Nicky Law, a key man in the Chesterfield side that came within a dodgy penalty decision of Wembley in 1997, inherited the manager's role from John Duncan following the club's relation to the third division. He has spoken of the City job being a "fantastic opportunity that he had hoped for but thought would not come." and has expessed a desire to get the club "Back where it belongs" which one hopes does not mean the middle of the second division as some would suggest.

Law wasted no time in spelling out the reasons that he thinks he new charges are struggling in the First division sighting the number of players who were under performing as the main reason why the club is struggling. Geoffrey Richmond praised Law's hard work ethic, something that Bantam's fans will appreciate, and commented on Law's abilities at recruiting good young players, an indication of the budgets that the new manager will be working within. It is understood by BfB that Law will share Jim Jefferies aims of getting a younger playing squad at Valley Parade and will be given limited funds to bring prospects to the club but, would he wants to, we would have to sell to bring in "more experienced players"

Law will take charge of the team for the first time in the FA Cup against Walsall on Saturday with Steve Smith to have taken charge for the game away at Burnley which fell foul of the bad weather.

BfB columnist Jonathan Jackson introduces Nicky, Michael Wood greets his appointment with a wry smile while Roland Harris dubbed the new manager No one's most wanted.

Nicky Banks on Ian

Former City midfielder Ian Banks completed one of the more unlikely comebacks in City history as the former Chesterfield assistant manager followed Nicky Law to Valley Parade. Banks, who signed for City in the Summer of 1988 following a spell at Huddersfield Town that included the winner in a 1-0 victory for the TBs at Valley Parade that many credit as robbing City of the First Division, was never a hugely popular figure during his time with the club but at least gives Bantam supporters a familiar name to recognise the new set up. He also provides T&A reporters with umpteen trite headlines. Speaking of which...

BfB's headline promise

BfB respect's it's readers right to surf the web without being assaulted by the worst in copywrighting and sub editing and as such will attempt to ban all puns, jokes and plays on the names of the new City manager and assistant. As such the following headlines have not appeared on BfB:

Who is Kevin Hornsby?

Chesterfield coach Kevin Hornsby jumped ship to Valley Parade to join Nicky Law and Ian Banks. Hi Kev.

Bad car, bad laptop

Apologies for the lack of updates over the New Year/New manager period. A broken laptop stopped us from updating and a broken alternator prevented us from getting back to Bradford.

The month by month news index.