Much has been made of Bradford’s domestic cup exploits over the past few years, reaching the final of the League Cup back in 2013, and beating Chelsea away last year in the FA Cup.
However, Phil Parkinson must be wanting to secure another promotion to ensure his tenure at Valley Parade, which is closing in on half a decade, is remembered as one of the most successful in recent memory.
Bradford sit 11th in the table, only four points outside of the playoff positions with oh so much to play for in the long, gruelling season ahead.
Devante Cole, son of former Manchester United and England striker Andy, is grabbing headlines in League One at Bradford City. The 20-year is looking to replicate his father’s goal scoring exploits, having netted 5 times already this season.
The loan signings of Kyel Reid and Reece Burke will help flesh out the midfield and defence respectively, in an effort to continue the good for that has seen the Bantams shoot up the league of late.
Next up, Parkinson must figure out who to sell in an effort to balance the books. Here are FOUR candidates to banish from Bradford this January…
JAMES HANSON
James Hanson has been a stoic servant to Bradford City over the years, since arriving from Guiseley FC to sign a professional contract with his hometown club.
He’s seventh on the club’s highest scorer list, a great effort coming from non-league. However, Devante Cole has simply provided another level of forward.
Hanson is bound to have suitors within League 2, perhaps a few in his current division, and should be moved on despite the sentimental value of having him in the squad.
BILLY KNOTT
Knott is a decent enough squad option, but should be sold if an offer came in for him. The former Chelsea youngster performed valiantly in the famous 4-2 at Stamford Bridge last year, but can’t live off that forever.
At 22-years-old, he will surely want to move a team where he’s more likely to get a look into the first team more frequently.
By the time January rolls around, he’ll be in the final six months on the deal and should be sold at whatever price the Valley Parade they can get for him.
DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY
An academy graduate, it’s easy to see why sections of the support would want to keep Mottley-Henry at Valley Parade.
Perhaps a loan move away to a lower league outfit would be beneficial to all parties, and revaluate the situation following its completion.
Currently, he is nowhere near the first-choice eleven, despite recently signing a professional deal.
BILLY CLARKE
Should the aforementioned James Hanson win the sentimental struggle and remain at Valley Parade, there could be an impact on Billy Clarke’s future at the club.
The former Crawley Town is entering the final stages of his contract in Bradford, and the Number 10 has seen his place lost to the likes of the returning Reid and Gary Liddle, as well as Knott.
Sell up while you can get a fee, Phil.
