Sunday 31 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Move along list

BfB is given to understand that Nicky Law and Geoffrey Richmond have compiled a list of players who are still in contract for next season but the club would be interested in getting offers for. Premiership contract relics Ashley Ward and Benito Carbone are on the list with Carbone thought to be sure of a move to either Boro or Torino. Andy Myers is understood to be on the list as a realistic fund raising asset, meaning that he is one of few players that someone might come in for who the club could spare. Eoin Jess is another possible cash sale.

The list reads: Eoin Jess, Benito Carbone, Ashley Ward, Andy Myers, Peter Atherton, Aidan Davison, Andy Tod, Robert Molenaar and Juanjo.

Etherington interest

Despite rumours suggesting that City have made "a substantial bid" for Matthew Etherington it is believed that City's interest in Spurs England u21 winger has so far only reached the point where the Bantams have asked to be kept informed of the players availability. Nicky Law, who has been impressed when watching with the player who left the club three days before he joined, is said to be keen on signing the winger but not at the £1.5m Spurs quoted Millwall.

McCall attracting First Division interest

Sheffield United and Burnley are reported to be keen on signing Stuart McCall should City not offer him a new deal.

Younger and more of them

Geoffrey Richmond has stated that the average age of the City squad will be reduced new season as Nicky Law continues his policy of signing under 25 year olds. Richmond has also said that the squad will be larger next season and that the club will work on the youth policy during the summer.

Richmond also confirmed that Mark Bower would be offered a new deal.

Saturday 30 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

New contracts for Bower, McCall?

The club are reported to be set to reward the impressive form of Mark Bower with a new deal, well earned in our humble opinion, while one source suggest that Stuart McCall has been offered similar one year terms to those rejected by Gunnar Halle this week to stay at the Bantams next season.

Gunnar chinned

Gunnar Halle's Wolves debut was marked with a 3-2 win over Robbie Blake's Burnley that saw City's on loan right back getting elbowed in the face by Turf Moor man Alan Moore. Moore was sent off.

Friday 29 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

City get a point at Watford

City moved to 15th in the First Division with a 0-0 draw at Watford with Nicky Law giving Tom Kearney a surprise debut and Kearney almost paying the manager back with a shot that came within inches of giving City a fourth double of the season.

Thursday 28 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Who will play right back?

With Gunnar Halle joining Wolves City are left with few options for the role of right back. Peter Atherton would be able to fill the position was he not long term injured. Claus Jorgensen has played the position in the past but one feels at this stage of the players development Nicky Law would prefer to keep the Dane in a midfield role. Andy Tod has played right back but has joined Hearts on loan, Robert Molenaar, like Atherton, is long term injured. Gary Locke, who can also play right back, may be back for the last game of the season but will miss the next four leaving City looking towards teenager Keith Brodie as the only right back at the club.

Gunnar goes after rejecting a new deal

After rejecting a new deal at Valley Parade Gunnar Halle has left Bradford City for a months loan at Wolves that will take the popular 36 year old to the end of his contract. Geoffrey Richmond said of the offer "In view of the fact he has done so well we would wish to retain his services for one more season. We made an offer, which was unfortunately not acceptable to Gunnar Halle because it was significantly lower than his current package which he signed before our first season in the Premiership. It became clear there was a significant gap between what we are able to offer and the expectation of Gunnar. The breakdown of talks was extremely amicable and it's not a closed door- but the indication is that there is an unbridgeable gap."

Gunnar Halle was Paul Jewell's first signing in the Premiership, costing £200,000 from Leeds, and eventually won over the Bantams faithful being one of the better players since the return to the Nationwide League. Halle is best remembered for his cross to the head of David Wetherall that got the goal against Liverpool that kept City in the Premiership in 2000.

Whalley leaves

Gareth Whalley has rejoined Crewe on loan until his contract runs out at the end of the season meaning that one of the driving forces in 1999's promotion may have played his last game at Bradford City. Whalley signed for City from Crewe in the summer of 1998 for £650,000 in a joint deal with Ashley Westwood. His passing ability and working ethic soon won over the City faithful as Whalley's midfield pairing with Stuart McCall became the hub of the success of that year.

Paul Jewell had insisted that Gareth Whalley could be put in the Manchester United midfield should he be paired with a protector as he had been with Stuart McCall, however, Whalley struggled to get time on the ball in the Premiership and injury reduced his role to that of bit part player.

Jim Jefferies restored Whalley to the side but once again injury robbed him of the chance to make the place his own as he had in 1999 and while Nicky Law has used him, it does seem that the talented Irishman does not fit into the long terms plans.

Tod to Hearts

Andy Tod, the one time hero of Valley Parade turned unhappy handballer, has joined Hearts on loan until the end of the season. The Scot signed by Jim Jefferies for a frightening £250,000 will be looking to make a permanent move before the start of next season.

Wednesday 27 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Deadline day moves

Deadline day looms once more and City have a decent chance of being involved in wheeling and/or dealing:

Incoming

Ian Breckin and Jamie Burt are obvious targets with Chesterfield looking to cash in after securing second division status for next season. Ronnie Wallwork could join for a fee should City want to steal a march on the host of clubs looking to sign the defender when he leaves on a Bosman in the summer. Jimmy Bulland [Peterbrough] and Paul Evans [Brentford] could be targets as could Andre Schei Lindbaek if Ashley Ward was to leave.

Outgoing

Lee Sharpe is believed to be free to talk to clubs if he can find a deal. One doubts that interest in Andy Tod would be rebuffed. Ashley Ward and David Wetherall have both been the subject of interest in the past and could have late moves although nothing has been heard. Should Ward go he would join Barnsley to help them avoid relegation. Manchester City may still want Wetherall.

Combe for Jess talk

One rumour has it that Dundee United will take Eoin Jess in exchange for Alan Combe. One is forced to wonder if we could negotiate them inot taking Andy Tod as well.

Nicky Law has played down, but not dismissed the idea.

92 becomes 60? 46!

ITV Digital went into receivership today after failing to agree a deal with the Football League to rid itself of the huge commitments that it agreed with the Nationwide League clubs. While the collapse of the deal seemed inevitable from the moment the company unveiled a business plan that relied on huge audiences for games such as QPR vs Reading the clubs are still due what they agreed when the deal was signed.

The FL are warning that should the clubs not get paid then up to half their number may be forced out of business. The clubs are taking league action and hope to claim the monies owed and ITV is rumoured to be looking to sell sections of the rights to Sky or even the BBC.

Perhaps hindsight is 20:20 but the deal to move away from SKY, who for all the evil Murdoch elements had supported the FL very well in the four years when games found a home on that channel, was misjudged. ITV Digital's coverage has been shoddy when reachable, which is not often, and no number of cute monkey's can disguise that fact.

From a City point of view Geoffrey Richmond's cost cutting, much lambasted in some area, makes perfect sense. City would not be one of the teams to go to the wall, something Richmond can be proud of.

Law to trialists: "Nick off the lot of you"

Nicky Law has stated that one of the trialists from Monday nights drubbing by Newcastle will be kept on. Darlington keeper Andrew Grainger, Bamber Bridge defender Terry Bowker and Mullingar Town midfielder Ashley Sestanovich all played in the 5-0 defeat.

Tuesday 26 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

New contacts on the table soon?

Nicky Law and Geoffrey Richmond are set to hand out new contacts to the City seven who's deals are up at the end of the year. Stuart McCall looks like not being offered a new deal owing to his age. Gunnar Halle will return to Norway and tus not be offered one. Youngster Andy Lee is not to b offered a deal after failing to break into the first team squad.

Lee Sharpe is thought to not fit into Nicky Law's plans and so will be freed while Gareth Whalley has revealed that the club have yet to offer him a deal for next season. "Nothing's been said so I'm just concentrating on playing. If they offer me something they offer me something. But we will have to wait and see."

The big contract winner would seem to be Mark Bower who impressed in the last four games after doing knack all in four years. Geoffrey Richmond commented on the player "Mark has seized his opportunity well, He has done himself no harm whatsoever with his recent performances and I know the manager will be speaking to him shortly."

Standing start next season

Michael Standing will not make his City debut this season after injuring his leg in the 5-0 defeat at Newcaslte reserves. Meanwhile Nicky Law has said that he hopes to give Tom Kearney his debut soon.

Monday 25 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Chopra hat-trick sinks reserves

City's second string lost 5-0 to Newcastle with Michael Chopra scoring three for the home side. Trialist Terry Bowker scored and own goal and Michael Standing only lasted half an hour before going off injured. Lee Sharpe made his return from illness for City.

Wetherall on coming back

David Wetherall has spoken about his goal against Crewe as he returns from the groin injury that has blighted half his Bantams career. "I've not been properly fit for 17 months since being carried off at Derby County [The game before Jim Jefferies took over]. Although I've played quite a few games since then I've never been totally right. But I've played four and a half games on it since coming back now and I'm confident I can just concentrate on the football. I'm not thinking about it now."

"It just feels great to be back and the goal was a blinder! It was hardly a classic but it wasn't about who scored the goals, it was getting the result for the team. If we'd got beaten we would have been in trouble but we deserved the result because it was a pressure game. I think we paid a little bit for our performance at Burnley and there were a few tired legs out there- certainly mine were! People who have studied it far more than me say 50 points is safe so I'm certainly not going to argue with the Manager and the Chairman. But another win would be nice just to be extremely comfortable."

Sestanovich and Bowker trial for reserves against Newcastle

Ashley Sestanovich gets the chance to play for City on trial after his international clearance finally came through. He is in the reserve side that plays Newcastle on Monday night along with Michael Standing, who will be making his first appearance in claret and amber, and Tom Kearney. Bamber Bridge's captain Terry Bowker has a trial for City at right back.

About Terry Bowker

Unibond league side Bamber Bridge's captain who can play at right back or in midfield. The former Altrincham man has a nasty side but highly praised in some corners

Law's Crewe2 plan

Nicky Law spoke of his Crewe2 plans for City saying "We need to get half a dozen of [Young players from the Premiership such as Michael Standing and Tom Kearney] in, fill the reserves with them, get them to challenge for the first team and have a bit of youth about the place."

Sunday 24 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

City want Wallwork

Nicky Law is reported to have had talks with Manchester United centreback Ronnie Wallwork with a view to signing the player. Wallwork is leaving Old Trafford on a Bosman transfer in the summer after playing 18 games for the Red Devils. City are one of a pack of clubs, thought to be West Bromwich Albion, Everton and Dundee United, keen on the centreback although would seem to be the first to show their interest in the controversial centreback in public.

About "controversial" Ronnie Wallwork

Former England youth international who had three loan spells away from Old Trafford at Carlisle, Stockport and Royal Antwerp in Belgium. It is during the third of these loans that Wallwork and one of his fellow United colleagues who had also been loaned to the Belgium club decided after a game that the Referee's decisions warranted debate with the match officials, debate that ended with Ronnie grabbing the official by the throat and holding him against a wall. Wallwork was banned for life from Belgian football, a ban that should have been ratified worldwide and looked set to end a promising career.

So certain was Alex Ferguson that Wallwork would never kick a ball professionally again he gave the then 21 year old a final bow at Old Trafford. However United's lawyers saw a loophole, the fact that Wallwork was a registered British player and hence came under the jurisdiction of Lancaster Gate not the Belgian FA, and thus could only be punished by the English FA. Wallwork got a suspension not a life ban and carried on his career. Powerful centreback, left footed and tall. Very forgivable at a club that has the likes of Jamie Lawrence, Danny Cadamarteri and Stan Collymore.

Etherington back to VP on Tuesday

Matthew Etherington will form a part of the England u21 squad for the game with Italy at VP on Tuesday night. The rest of the squad is frankly a bunch of Leedsers. They are:

BfB guide to the u21 squad
Locke to make final game of the season

Gary Locke is hoping to be fit for the last games of the season although the form of Claus Jorgensen, the signing of Michael Standing and Nicky Law's policy about bringing in young players does put a question mark over the midfielder's future. Jim Jefferies would jump at the chance of taking Locke to Kilmarnock should Law not want the player for next season.

Saturday 23 March, 2002

2-0 win over Crewe puts City in safety

City reached the 50 point mark, two off the new Nicky Law target but a level that should secure First Division football, with a 2-0 win against Crewe at Valley Parade with goals from David Wetherall and Stuart McCall.

Law wants Combe

As if to double underline the fact that City will be trying to sign Alan Combe in the summer Nicky Law said of the loan player "He is my kind of keeper".

Beni sets up brilliant win

A Benito Carbone pass put in Alen Boskic to score the only goal in a famous 1-0 win for Boro at Manchester United. Boro now sit 10, almost guaranteeing City the £500,000 for Dean Windass and have found a working combination with Carbone. All of which means the Boro situation is looking good for City.

Friday 22 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Crewe Two

Nicky Law and Geoffrey Richmond have hinted at there plans for the future of Bradford City with the manager saying that he would like to build the same sort of talent production line as Saturday's opponents Crewe operate, only on bigger scale. Chairman Richmond is reported to be "100% behind" Nicky Law in this and the signings of 21-ishers Michael Standing, Tom Kearney and Danny Cadamarteri are steps towards this end. Spoketh Law "We've not got our own Youth Academy, so we've got to pick up players who've not quite made it with Premiership teams. Other teams have done that; Crewe are a good example who over the years have picked up a number of players after they'd all been let go by Manchester United. The chairman's well aware of that and we'll start to concentrate on that. We'll be very busy over the next couple of months."

Law has revealed that he would like to give Standing and Kearney larger involvements and hopes that should first division safety be ensured soon, the two will play large parts in the latter end of the season.

In furtherance to the idea of Crewe Two, the Railwaymen were placed top of a list of clubs who would suffer from the ITV Digital deal falling apart. Prized asset Dean Ashton, who interested Jim Jefferies (and Arsene Wenger and Alex Ferguson) would surely be sacrificed should funds get tight at Gresty Road.

Wetherall: Back for good

David Wetherall has stated that he will stay at City and backed the Bantams to make a promotion push next season. Wetherall, who was set for a move to either Southampton or Manchester City before his injury said of his comeback "I didn't realise how much I missed playing. I can't wait for tomorrow to come around - it's a massive game for us against a team that are just below us in the table. In the last couple of matches we've come back to something like the way we can play. If we'd played like that for most of the season we'd be up near the top."

Speaking about the chances of his moving away from Valley Parade City's next skipper said "All I'm interested in is helping Bradford stay in the division this year and then make sure that next time we're in a much, much better position and pushing for the Premier League. I won't be looking to get away and I would be very happy if I'm still here next season. There's going to be a total different look to the team and there will be a lot of changes in the summer. But not everybody in the team can be a 20-year-old so people will want to cement their places in the squad."

New boy on joining City

Tom Kearney has spoken as to why he left Everton. "It was frustrating to see the other young lads around you getting a chance while I was not moving any nearer. I'd come up through the ranks at Everton but I was never close to the first team. My contract was up in the summer and I was told that they would be letting me go. Luckily they let me look elsewhere rather than leaving it to the summer when there is a big pot of players looking for other clubs. It's a great opportunity here and it's up to me to get into the first team. It's good news that they are looking to bring in young players and I hope I can prove myself with the chance I've been given."

Much of Nicky Law's transfer policy seems to be centred around picking up the young reserves being freed from bigger clubs. "They (Kearney and Michael Standing) are good players who never had the opportunity to make it at bigger clubs. This is the ideal situation for them to come here and make a name for themselves."

Benito Carbone has announced that he would be happy to stay at Boro for the rest of his career which mean either a: he wants a move to the Riverside or B: He is hanging up his size sixes at the end of this term.

Beni has said that should he not sign a deal with Boro at the end of the season he would like ot return to Italy with home club Torino being the most likely destination.

Thursday 21 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

City linked with two more midfielders

Nicky Law's midfield revolution at Valley Parade show no signs of stopping after the midweek signings of 20 year olds Michael Standing and Tom Kearney. Law is reported to be trying to sign the veteran 24 year old Jimmy Bullard from Peterborough United and the ancient Paul Evans, who is 27 years of age.

Of the two Evans seems the more likely purchase with City lining up a £100,000 deal to bring the player from cash strapped Brentford before deadline day next week. Bulland, who Barry Fry dubbed "My David Beckham", seems ready to wait until the summer and the increased options before moving on.

About Paul Evans

27 year old Welshman who has been at Brentford for four years after signing for £100,000 from Shrewsbury Town. Evans is a holding midfielder in the style of a Stuart McCall/Roy Keane/Bryan Robson. Described as "A born leader.", "Our captain and inspiration" and "Deadly from free-kicks around the box" by Brentford fans. See trandy.co.uk.

About Jimmy Bulland

For West Ham player who found first team football under Barry Fry at The Posh. Dubbed "My David Beckham" by Fry Bulland is reported to share the England captains ability to pass accurately and desire to win. Sounds decent.

Combe bid in the summer

Sources at City suggest that Nicky Law has decided he will make a bid for Alan Combe in the summer.

Jorgi disappointed not to get two

Claus Jorgensen spoke of the moment he could have given City the lead at Burnley but fannied about on the ball "Danny Cadamarteri found me unmarked with a great cross but instead of hitting it after my first touch, I tried to take it back and just didn't have enough time. I was very disappointed."

Nicky Law continued the jocularity that will be very hollow should City get relegated by two points says "Claus had only got to hit it and he'd score or square it to Stuart McCall for a tap-in, Instead he tried to turn like Johann Cruyff and puts them in on our goal. If they'd have scored then I'd have run on the pitch and strangled him!"

Speaking about his goal, the first time he has scored for City, Jorgi said "When I saw it go in, I was so excited I couldn't breathe - I wanted to go on a solo run to celebrate but I couldn't move!"

Wednesday 20 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

City nick a point at Burnley

They came to watch Gascoigne but left early after City took control of the second half and took a point through Claus Jorgensen that could have been more.

Kearney signs after successful trial

Second midfielder signs in a week

City have signed Everton midfielder Tom Kearney after the left sided midfielder completed a successful trial at Valley Parade. As with Michael Standing Liverpool born Kearney is just 20 years old, a clear indication that Nicky law is attempting to make good on his promised of cutting the age of the squad. Jim Jefferies also promised to lower the average age of the City team but still signed 31 year old Andy Tod.

Kearney is contracted until the end of next season but could earn an extension should he deliver on the glowing praise of Ian Banks "As soon as you saw the lad play, there was something about him and you knew he was the type of player we are looking to bring into the club.". Kearney is expected to be one of two left wingers at City with the Bantams signing another and, it is believed, letting Lee Sharpe go.

Deadline day 28th

Nicky Law is not expected to spend any of the £2.5m summer transfer fund on deadline day next week following as the club drifted towards teh safety target of 50 points but could allow Andy Tod, Lee Sharpe or Gareth Grant leave.

Danny in the dock

Danny Cadamarteri appeared in court charged with perverting the course of justice.

GR on TV deal

Geoffrey Richmond is warning the Football League clubs that the ITV digital deal could be renegotiated leaving the clubs with a shortfall.

Tuesday 19 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Standing on Law and why he joined City

New City recruit Michael Standing has sung the praises of Nicky Law following move from Aston Villa. "Once I had met Nicky Law and saw around the stadium I immediately knew that this was the club for me. This is a Premier League stadium and I hope we will soon be a Premier League club and I want to play my part in getting the club back in the top flight. I was very impressed with Nicky Law and have been told of his vision for the future. I want to be part of that future and of the new generation of players that he is bringing in."

Law on Standing and what he will do at City

City boss Nicky Law has indicated that Michael Standing will be introduced gradually to the City team saying "We will register him and get his shirt done but my plan is to introduce him gradually. He hasn't played a lot of football lately and we want to get him used to the environment here."

Law spoke of his second signing at Bradford City saying "Michael is a good footballer at the right age. He is someone we have been aware of for a long time and was looking for a fresh start and this is where we came in. He can play wide right or in centre midfield so it gives me more options."

Law has previously raided Villa reserves for loan players to make the short trip to Saltergate when the City boss was manager of Chesterfield.

Reserves lose 2-0

City's reserves lost 2-0 at Villa Park. David Wetherall put in an excellent display and should be back to play against Burnley on Wednesday night. Bosko Balaban and John McGrath scored for Villa. Gareth Grant enjoyed City's best chance but put it wide.

Ashley Sestanovich did not play because his International clearance did not come through.

Thelwell move falls short

Nicky Law confirmed that he made a move for Tottenham Hotspur defender Alton Thelwell on loan but said that the clubs could not agree on a deal and so the deal stalled. "With Simon Grayson going back to Blackburn Rovers, we've got one loan spot open but we have to use it wisely." said Law who may be thinking about moving for a different position to Thelwell's after the emergence of Mark Bower as a credible alternative at centreback.

Monday 18 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Michael Standing proud

Villa's creative midfielder signs for City

City have signed Aston Villa midfielder Michael Standing on a three year contract after the midfielder was freed from the Premiership club. Standing, who has been freed by Villa after 3 years in the reserves following his £1m join move with Gareth Barry from Brighton, has made it clear that he has moved away from Birmingham for the good of his career. Standing said "It was a sad day for me when I left Villa, but a good day for my career, I just think I've gone stale and need a new challenge. Graham Taylor and Doug Ellis have both been brilliant. I had a meeting with the chairman and he wished me all the best. He could probably have got some money for me but was good enough to let me have a chance to prove everybody wrong.

Standing should get along with one former team mate Benito Carbone, both having grievencies with John Gregory. Satnding says of the new Derby boss "I don't think I was ever given a chance by the former boss."

Three try out, Kearney back again

Tom Kearney will play his third game for City and may be offered a deal before deadline day should the left footed midfielder, who will play in the centre of the middle four at for the second string against Aston Villa in Birmingham tonight, impress once more.

First teamers David Wetherall, Lewis Emanuel and Juanjo play. Newcastle United's Carl Heiniger will play on the right wing, Wolverhampton Wanderers's Tony McStea will play central midfield and Ashley Sestanovich from Irish side Mullinger Town will play on the left.

About Carl Heiniger

Right winger from Newcastle United

About Tony McStea

Scots born Wolverhampton Wanderers holding midfielder.

About Ashley Sestanovich

The "Croat from Clapham" was on the books of Manchester City as a youth before being released after getting caught in the revolving door policy at Maine Road. Sestanovich went to Millwall for some time, then went semi-pro before getting the call to got to Irish side Mullinger Town after London based Mullinger man Jim Moore pumped £100,000 into the Irish side.

Moore took 17 young players from London to Ireland with a promise of "bed and board and a little pocket money" and according to manager Joseph deGraft they are "as hungry a group of players as you will find in football."

Sestanovich, who is reported to be the pick of the crop, said of the move to Ireland "A few of us were going to sign for Ostend in Belgium but the set-up there wasn't really good. The way Joseph deGraft put it, the Irish opportunity sounded much better. Judging by today's game, he was right. The standard surprised me a lot."

Bower to get new deal

Mark Bower is set to be offered a new deal by City and a bumping up the pecking order at Valley Parade after a series of impressive displays. 21 Bower will be made first reserve and be a permanent member of the match day squad. Nicky Law sung the youngster's praises "Bower has done a great job again. I'd not seen much of him when I came here but he did well in the reserves when we watched him against Man United and he's had two storming games since. He's the sort of player and the age that we're looking for and he hasn't done himself any harm at all."

Law still angry at Tod

Nicky Law continued to fume at Andy Tod following his penalty gift at Rotherham "It was a kick in the teeth for the players and supporters. To give it away in that nature is inexcusable. We put [Andy Tod] on there to give us a lift with defending corners and free-kicks and that's what he should have done. Whether he was fouled or not is no excuse, the ball was going nowhere - it was heading into the crowd for a goal kick with time running out. It was just an horrendous decision to make."

Law: Sort Rotherham out

Nicky Law has called for the action to be taken against coin throwers at Rotherham after Alan Combe was pelted during the weekend 1-1 draw.

The shame of Sheffield United

Much written on the aborted game at Sheffield United. Should the Blades get fined a tonne of points then they may fall behind City, however, if City are third bottom and relying on a FA panel to dock points off of the Blades then we probably would deserve the second division.

Sunday 17 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

City linked with Thelwell loan

Nicky Law is being linked with a loan move for Spurs defender Alton Thelwell. Centreback Thelwell was been frozen out of the Spurs first team picture following the arrival of Dean Richards at White Hart Lane and is keen to follow team mate Matthew Etherington's example of proving himself in a lower division to stake a claim for a Premiership place.

Ward out for two

Ashley Ward's booking at Rotherham will see him miss games with Norwich City on Easter Monday and at Wimbledon.

Is Tod out of Valley Parade?

Comments coming out of Valley Parade are suggesting that Andy Tod may have played his final game for City. Many believe that Tod was the target of Geoffrey Richmond's "Average players who end up as millionaires" remarks of a week ago and since then Tod lost his place in the team to Mark Bower.

The Jim Jefferies signing would seem to have lost all the faith of Nicky Law with the penalty that cost City two points at Rotherham with the City boss saying "There was no need for Tod to handle the ball although he claimed he was pushed in the back, but I don't wear that."

With David Wetherall back in first team contention Tod is pushed further down the pecking order to the stage where emergencies aside, one cannot see the Scot getting a game and judging from Geoffrey Richmond's comments he is likely to be shipped out in the summer.

Saturday 16 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Late penalty denies City a win

Andy Tod threw away a smash and grab win for City at Rotherham with a stupid handball that gave the home side a penalty to equalise Wayne Jacobs strike. City drew 1-1 at Millmoor with Rotherham.

McCall vs Gascoigne for real

Stuart McCall will come up against former Rangers team mate/drinking buddy and Euro96 adversary Paul Gascoigne after the Geordie legend signed for Burnley until the end of the season. Gascoigne will make his debut against City on Wednesday night. If as expected Gascoigne moves to the USA in the summer his final game in English football would be another clash with his former Ranger's team mate in Stuart's testimonial game.

I'm Juanjo, play me

Juanjo has asked Nicky Law and City fans to give him a second chance. The midfielder was left high and dry by Jim Jefferies following his signing from Hearts and has had his City career interrupted by the former manager's departure but now the Spaniard wants to get on at Valley Parade saying "I'm just looking for a real chance for Bradford and I want to do my best for this team."

Lindbaek and Breckin line up?

City Geoffrey Richmond inching towards the panic button Nicky Law is said to have lined up bids for Chesterfield's Ian Breckin of £200,000 and £100,000 plus payments for FK Molde striker Andre Lindbaek.

Friday 15 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Law has his eye on two

Should City not be out of relegation trouble next Sunday Nicky Law will try sign two players in transfer deadline week. Chesterfield's Ian Breckin is thought to be one, the other could be trialist Tom Kearney, formerly of Everton.

One might ask the question if First Division safety is paramount and the "panic button" is pressed, why is Benito Carbone allowed to be out on loan. In his last appearance for City Carbone turned a point into three with his free kick. Surely is there is a case of all hands on deck, Carbone must be brought back from Boro.

On the subject of transfers and Benito Carbone BfB columnist Michael Wood considers the situation that Nicky Law will find himself in in the summer in his article The smart money is not going on transfer this summer.

Jakes: Don't boo us

After the tough time he got at the hands of some City fans on Tuesday night Wayne Jacobs has called on City fans to back the team, not boo them. Sounds sensible enough.

Thursday 14 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Wetherall back for Saturday after Odsal outing

David Wetherall played 90 minutes of the Reserves 2-1 defeat to Everton at Odsal. Trialist Jamal Campbell-Ryce scored City's goal in the second half.

Plan B: Spend

Geoffrey Richmond has revealed City's plan to avoid relegation should the games with Rotherham, Burnley and Crewe over the next week not bare fruit. Richmond and Nicky Law have agreed that if City are still in relegation trouble in the week before deadline day City will buys players. "We are not prepared to put First Division status at risk" said Richmond.

Ward wanted by West Brom and Everton

Aside from being targeted by promotion chasing West Brom Ashley Ward was also targeted by Walter Smith at Everton in the days before he was sacked from Goodison Park. One wonders how much Smith telling the Toffee's board that his big plan to stop Everton from leaving the top flight for the first time ever is to sign a player who took 31 games to score in his last spell in the highest division contributed to the former Rangers manager departure.

Ward is due to return to the City side this weekend following injury.

Reserves field more trialists

City's reserve side will field a number of trialists as well as comeback defender David Wetherall and Lewis Emanuel. The trialist are Sean Dillon and Tom Kearney who played for the reserves last week and goalkeeper Andrew Grainger from Darlington, Matthew Smith from Leicester City and Jamal Campbell-Rice of Charlton Athletic.

Wednesday 13 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Wetherall back for Saturday?

David Wetherall will play for the reserves against Everton on Thursday night at Odsal and should he show any fitness at all, will find himself back in the City team for the weekend crunch tie with Rotherham. It is less than two years since Wetherall scored the winner in a crunch tie with Liverpool that staved off relegation, an indication of how far we have fallen. Ashley Ward also hopes to return for Saturday as does Simon Grayson.

Looking forward

City's next season starts on the 10th of August, 2002. The division City will play in is, for the moment, unknown. The season finishes on 3rd of May, 2003 with play offs to follow.

Tuesday 12 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Half hearted City lose 3-1 to Birmingham

City were wretched for 45 minutes against Birmingam City. Second half we tried but still got beat 3-1

Saturday 16 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Late penalty denies City a win

Andy Tod threw away a smash and grab win for City at Rotherham with a stupid handball that gave the home side a penalty to equalise Wayne Jacobs strike. City drew 1-1 at Millmoor with Rotherham.

McCall vs Gascoigne for real

Stuart McCall will come up against former Rangers team mate/drinking buddy and Euro96 adversary Paul Gascoigne after the Geordie legend signed for Burnley until the end of the season. Gascoigne will make his debut against City on Wednesday night. If as expected Gascoigne moves to the USA in the summer his final game in English football would be another clash with his former Ranger's team mate in Stuart's testimonial game.

I'm Juanjo, play me

Juanjo has asked Nicky Law and City fans to give him a second chance. The midfielder was left high and dry by Jim Jefferies following his signing from Hearts and has had his City career interrupted by the former manager's departure but now the Spaniard wants to get on at Valley Parade saying "I'm just looking for a real chance for Bradford and I want to do my best for this team."

Lindbaek and Breckin line up?

City Geoffrey Richmond inching towards the panic button Nicky Law is said to have lined up bids for Chesterfield's Ian Breckin of £200,000 and £100,000 plus payments for FK Molde striker Andre Lindbaek.

Friday 15 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Law has his eye on two

Should City not be out of relegation trouble next Sunday Nicky Law will try sign two players in transfer deadline week. Chesterfield's Ian Breckin is thought to be one, the other could be trialist Tom Kearney, formerly of Everton.

One might ask the question if First Division safety is paramount and the "panic button" is pressed, why is Benito Carbone allowed to be out on loan. In his last appearance for City Carbone turned a point into three with his free kick. Surely is there is a case of all hands on deck, Carbone must be brought back from Boro.

On the subject of transfers and Benito Carbone BfB columnist Michael Wood considers the situation that Nicky Law will find himself in in the summer in his article The smart money is not going on transfer this summer.

Jakes: Don't boo us

After the tough time he got at the hands of some City fans on Tuesday night Wayne Jacobs has called on City fans to back the team, not boo them. Sounds sensible enough.

Thursday 14 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Wetherall back for Saturday after Odsal outing

David Wetherall played 90 minutes of the Reserves 2-1 defeat to Everton at Odsal. Trialist Jamal Campbell-Ryce scored City's goal in the second half.

Plan B: Spend

Geoffrey Richmond has revealed City's plan to avoid relegation should the games with Rotherham, Burnley and Crewe over the next week not bare fruit. Richmond and Nicky Law have agreed that if City are still in relegation trouble in the week before deadline day City will buys players. "We are not prepared to put First Division status at risk" said Richmond.

Ward wanted by West Brom and Everton

Aside from being targeted by promotion chasing West Brom Ashley Ward was also targeted by Walter Smith at Everton in the days before he was sacked from Goodison Park. One wonders how much Smith telling the Toffee's board that his big plan to stop Everton from leaving the top flight for the first time ever is to sign a player who took 31 games to score in his last spell in the highest division contributed to the former Rangers manager departure.

Ward is due to return to the City side this weekend following injury.

Reserves field more trialists

City's reserve side will field a number of trialists as well as comeback defender David Wetherall and Lewis Emanuel. The trialist are Sean Dillon and Tom Kearney who played for the reserves last week and goalkeeper Andrew Grainger from Darlington, Matthew Smith from Leicester City and Jamal Campbell-Rice of Charlton Athletic.

Wednesday 13 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Wetherall back for Saturday?

David Wetherall will play for the reserves against Everton on Thursday night at Odsal and should he show any fitness at all, will find himself back in the City team for the weekend crunch tie with Rotherham. It is less than two years since Wetherall scored the winner in a crunch tie with Liverpool that staved off relegation, an indication of how far we have fallen. Ashley Ward also hopes to return for Saturday as does Simon Grayson.

Looking forward

City's next season starts on the 10th of August, 2002. The division City will play in is, for the moment, unknown. The season finishes on 3rd of May, 2003 with play offs to follow.

Tuesday 12 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Half hearted City lose 3-1 to Birmingham

City were wretched for 45 minutes against Birmingam City. Second half we tried but still got beat 3-1

Monday 11 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Two views on Richmond

BfB columnists Michael Wood and Jon Blakely present alternate views on the City chairman:

McCall to sign off against Rangers?

Stuart McCall's Testimonial Game has been set for the 28th of April, 2002 after the season ends which could mean that the game against Glasgow Rangers would be Stuarts final in a City shirt should he not be offered a deal for next season.

Paul Gascoigne, Brian Laudrup, Richard Gough, Ally McCoist and Mark Hateley are all invited to play for the Rangers side which will be managed by McCall's former Ibrox boss Walter Smith.

Molenaar joins Myers and Atherton out for the season

Robert Molnenaar has been ruled out until the end of the season with the injury that has kept him out of the team for the past few months.

Sunday 10 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Released Kearney to get game against former club

City's 20 year old trialist Tom Kearney will play for the Bantams second string against Everton at Odsal on Thursday night. Nicky Law said of the left footed midfielder "We were quite impressed with the lad and want to have another look at him. It is worth looking at these young lads who have been released by Premier League clubs because you just might find a good one."

Windass ruled out of Tigers job

Dean Windass will not be given the Hull City job according to that club. City's Stuart McCall remains in the running.

Saturday 09 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Breckin signing next week?

With the injury to Andy Myers Nicky Law confirmed that he hopes to bring in another centreback to the club before the end of the season. With Simon Grayson and Alan Combe on loan City have to sign a player. "I'll be speaking to the Chairman on Monday about signing a replacement." confirmed Law who is thought to have put his former Chesterfield stopper Ian Breckin at the top of his wanted list.

City had a bid for Breckin turned down earlier this season but the Bantams boss may go back with an improved bid to get his man and ensure First Division football.

Good results

Walsall's two goals in the last eleven minutes to geta 2-2 draw with grimsby eased lingering relegation doubts at Valley Parade. Rotherham lost to Preston while both Sheffield Wednesday and Barnsley drew.

Myers blow

City's threadbare backline was dealt a further blow as Andy Myers was ruled out until the end of the season following the unnecessary tackle from behind in last night's defeat by Manchester City. City are now without any of the three centrebacks who were at the club at the start of the season.

Robert Molenaar and David Wetherall are both coming back to fitness and could show before the end of the year, until either returns, Gunnar Halle and Andy Tod will continue.

Friday 08 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Bradford City 0 Manchester City 2

Third defeat as in a week Manchester City win 2-0 at Valley Parade to put City in trouble and call time on this team.

Richmond give Law an axe to wield

Before the Manchester City game Geoffrey Richmond give Nicky Law a remit to revamp the City team following what the chairman called "totally unacceptable recent performances". Richmond steamed "I'm not prepared to stand for the type of performance and lack of commitment that I have seen all too often this season. Don't judge Nicky Law by these totally unacceptable recent performances. I will restate again today that in the summer there will be between seven and ten new signings and Danny Cadamarteri is one of these. The team next season will reflect exactly what Nicky Law wants from a footballer."

Richmond continued "The exit door is open for the vast majority of our overpaid, under-achieving footballers. Many of them will get the shock of their lives when their present contracts end and they see that the world of football will value them at a fraction of their present inflated salaries. Blood may have to be spilled on the way. My challenge to every one of our footballers is to show professionalism and give 100 per cent commitment every time they cross the white line - anything short is totally unacceptable. I accept that we will lose games during the course of the season. But what is unacceptable are performances where at the end of the game we feel that the players have not given there all for the cause."

Richmond concluded his outburst saying "Unfortunately footballers are on watertight contracts and are totally unsackable. They are the most protected species on earth. Very average footballers end their careers in many cases millionaires secure for the rest of their days, without being able to look in the mirror and truly say they gave everything for their cause."

BfB columnist James Ramsden looks at Richmond comments in his piece Geoffrey has spoken

Law on becoming Hull manager

Nicky Law spoke about his link to the Hull City managers job saying "I honestly don't know why I've been linked with it. I've no knowledge of anything to do with Hull and I won't let it affect me."

No Greenacre signing

Geoffrey Richmond has denied that City have already signed a deal for Mansfield striker Chris Greenacre. "Nicky Law knows about him" said the City chairman.

Javary goes to Blades

Jean Philippe Javary has left Valley Parade after his trial spell "No better than what we have" being the rather depressing analysis. The French man has joined Sheffield United on trial.

Thursday 07 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Law to Hull dismissed as "Nonsense"

Geoffrey Richmond has dismissed a story linking City boss Nicky Law to the vacant manager's job at Hull as "absolute nonsense". "Nicky Law has only just started here and has given his plans for the long-term future." said Richmond. Any rumours linking Hull and the Bantams could be an offshoot of Stuart McCall being linked with the Boothferry Park job. The Tigers are thought to be interested in talking to McCall over the position. They are also reported to be keen to speak to Rotherham's Ronnie Urinate into Emlyn Hughes' half time cuppa Moore and Scunthorpe's former Grismby manager Brian Smash a tea cup in the face of the Italian superstar Laws.

However with Nicky Law missing the Wednesday afternoon reserve game with Liverpool and Thursday morning's training there is speculation that something is happening at Valley Parade.

Stuart speaks

Stuart McCall has given an interview to givemefootballdotcom in which he talks of moving into managment and quitting playing saying "If I do go into management I want to do it with 100 per cent commitment so I would have to stop playing."

Read more of McCall's interview at givemefootballdotcom.

Jess dropped "To save him from the fans"

Nicky Law has revealed that Eoin Jess was dropped from the team that lost to Stockport to save him from the fan's wrath after his poor displays against Sheffield Wednesday. "In the last two games that hasn't happened and I'm very disappointed for the supporters. You can't blame them for having a go," said Law, "I dropped Jess because of his performance on Saturday and the response he got from the crowd. It was as much to protect the player as anything else."

Reserves to stay at Odsal

City are hoping to use Odsal for the remaining four reserve games this season provided the club can get permission from the FA. MD Shaun Harvey said: "There are one or two little things to sort out but we can't see there being a problem. It will ease the workload on the Valley Parade pitch."

Wednesday 06 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Wetherall back for Man City game

David Wetherall played his first game since a move at Man City broken down after he failed a medical as City's Reserves lost 3-1 to Liverpool at Odsal. With City's confidence at a low ebb and the back line looking brittle the popular Wetherall may be in line for a moral boosting return for Friday night's game against the club that tried to sign him.

Gunnar Halle also completed the game along with five trialists, one of whom, Tom Kierney of Everton, gave City a lead which was overhauled by goals from Bernard Dimomede, Milan Baros and Daniel Sjolund.

24 year old Plymouth attacking midfielder Sean Evers, who once cost Reading £500,000, was the highest profile of the guest players. The other trialists for City were Aston Villa pair Jamie Cunnington and Sean Dillon and Derby's Gareth McKeown.

"We made Carlton Palmer look like Franz Beckenbauer"

Nicky Law was in a similar state of disbelief as most City fans following the 1-0 humiliation at the hands of Stockport last night saying "It is almost like we have no confidence. We have the players with the ability, but they are not producing, We are far from safe, especially if we keep on playing like that. They (the players) have to stand up and be counted and be men. We made Carlton Palmer look like Franz Beckenbauer tonight".

Law continued "I could have started kicking skips and throwing cups and knocking things all over the place but who would have benefited? They aren't going to respond to that. Instead I just had a chat with the lads for 15-20 minutes to find out what it is that's wrong, because I don't know. It's almost as if they have no confidence at all. We're far from safe at the moment and if we continue to play like that then we're in trouble."

BfB columnist Jonathan Jackson takes a look at the Stockport defeat in his column Another Bad Day At The Office Dear?

Locke out for the season

Gary Locke's collision with eth Stockport bench is likely to rule him out for the rest of the season. The midfielder also has a hernia operation pending which is likely to dbe done as he recovers from the torn ankle ligaments suffered last night.

Transfer stuff
Beni to Boro full time?

Steve McClaren confirmed his interest, or perhaps that should be lack of disinterest, in taking Benito Carbone to Boro full time saying "He has added another dimension to the team and something that we were missing."

Gareth Whalley to Ipswich?

George Burley says he will be signing someone before deadline day, but not City's Gareth Whalley.

Billy Turley to City?

Rushden boss Brian Talbot denied that his keeper would be joining City.

Lee Makel out of Livingstone

Lee Makel has been told that he will not be offered a contract by Livingstone next season following his move from City. Next stop Kilmarnock?

Tuesday 05 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

I don't know how City will avoid relegation

Stockport had not won in 17 when City rolled into Edgely Park. They won 1-0. Roland Harris reports I don't know how City will avoid relegation.

Baggies looking at Ward?

Having had loan moves for Coventry's Lee Hughes and Spurs Sergei Rebrov turned down rumour has it that West Brom will try sign Ashley Ward.

Jess gone?

Eoin Jess is said to have felt the force of Nicky Law's critisms of the City team for "Not hurting enough when the team loses". Jess was substituted at half time in the 2-0 defeat by Sheffield Wednesday and left out of the 16 for the game with Stockport. Jess was viewed as the player most likely to follow Jim Jefferies to Kilmarnock.

Monday 04 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

City wanted pay for play deal for Lindbaek

FK Molde have revealled that City wanted striker Andre Lindbaek on an appearance based deal that would have gieven the seller no money up front. "There wasn't any money up front offered and we answered no directly," said Molde director Espen Silseth. City offered a deal that paid out after Lindbaek had played 20 games for the Bantams.

Reserves to play at Odsal

City's reserves will play Liverpool's second string at Odsal Stadium, the first time the Bantams have played in the Rugby ground since the end of 1986. The game is Wednesday afternoon at 2.00pm the move being made to protect the Valley Parade pitch.

Whalley back for Stockport

Gareth Whalley, who missed the weekend defeat by Sheffield Wednesday after his knee seized up in training on Friday, is due to return for the Bantams in Tuesday night's game with Stockport.

Sunday 03 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

City make it easy for the Owls to win 2-0

Nicky Law picked an unbalanced midfield against a Sheffield Wednesday team that needed to win and did, 2-0 at Valley Parade.

Friday 01 March, 2002

Today's News by Michael Wood

Do Hull want McCall for manager?

Rumour has it that Hull City have targeted Stuart McCall to be their new manager following the resignation of Brian Little. McCall commented, "I've heard the speculation but I don't know anything about it." without denying he maybe interested in what is an attractive position. BfB columnist Michael Wood is shocked to find himself saying Now is the time for Stuart McCall to leave.

Defending Ashley Ward

BfB columnist Jonathan.Jackson makes the case for the recently lambasted striker in his piece Defending Ashley Ward.

Dean Richards joins the BfB Bradford City Hall of Fame

BfB readers have spoken and have added Dean Richards to the BfB Bradford City Hall of Fame. The Spurs £8m signing becomes the first player to join the Hall Of Fame who is still playing. Please feel free to vote for March's inductee

Juanjo Reserves gets City at point vs Man Utd

City's resevres drew 1-1 with a Manchester United team that included Dwight Yorke and Diego Forlan. Forlan scored for United in the second half after hitting the post twice City equalised when Juanjo pokes a header towards goal which took a heavy deflection off of Paul Tierney. United fielded right back Lee Roche who is believed have caught Nicky Law's eye with a view to a loan move last month. French trialist Jean Philippe Javary impressed in difficult circumstances and will meet with Nicky Law to discuss a permanent contract at City. Fellow trialists Tony Lennon and David Colvin were poor.

Robert Molenaar, who was hoping to make a come back from a broken rib in the game, was removed from the squad in the morning after a recurrence of his injury. He will be missing for a further two weeks

Stand (Now face North)

Geoffrey Richmond has issued a statement on the issue of people standing at Valley Parade, especially people on the North Stand/Kop. Richmond states "The club does not have an issue with supporters who stand at times of excitement but return to their seat within a reasonable time when the excitement ends. We have a responsibility to all supporters in respect of their enjoyment and safety whilst in the Stadium."

"The Club have a legal responsibility under the Safety Certificate to stop supporters from persistently standing in an all-seater stadium, otherwise sanctions could be brought which could see certain areas of the stadium closed down. All supporters are aware of the problems encountered at Old Trafford where they had one last chance before Trafford Council were to cut their capacity. The rules on standing are the same for the front or back rows, it is principally for safety reasons that you are asked to sit which in turn does not stop the enjoyment of others."

The City chairman concludes "We want you to enjoy matchday at the Club, and promise you will not be prevented from standing in times of excitement but we ask you to sit at all other times. The Club Stewards have a job to do but the best management is self-management, so please don't persistently stand and the issue goes away.

While BfB has sympathy for the standers, having grown up in the era of terraces one recognises that seating has changed the atmosphere of Valley Parade as it has done every other ground, one cannot help but think that complaints are being aimed at the wrong areas. The issue of standing at Valley Parade goes much further than Geoffrey Richmond and those who are serious about having safe standing areas at VP should be careful that the campaign is not high jacked by those looking for any excuse to castigate GR.

End of month

If it happen in February 2002, then it's here

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