Alexander on new Bradford deal and recruitment

Media caption,

Alexander: 'A show of support for what we can do'

  • Published

Bradford City boss Graham Alexander has been speaking to the media ahead of his side's opening League One game against Wycombe Wanderers on Saturday at 15:00 BST.

Here are the key lines:

  • Alexander says his new three-year deal as manager is not a reward for the club's dramatic final day promotion to League One last season but a validation of the work that's been done by himself and his backroom staff. He revealed that club CEO Ryan Sparks had first mentioned a new deal months before.

  • Alexander believes there is still a lot of potential at Valley Parade and is passionate that more can be achieved over the next three years.

  • The club have made nine signings this window and Alexander says they're still looking to recruit further, specifically on an unnamed area. They're yet to identify that individual.

  • He went on to explain their current budget allows for one more addition. "Any more than that, we'll have to trade. We'll have to have outgoings."

  • "A couple of individuals" were told on the first day of pre-season it's likely they won't be in Alexander's plans. There is nothing close regarding their departures, with Alexander confirming interest has been shown but deals have not materialised.

  • When asked about the use of the loan market, he said the club were open to it but stressed the importance of Bradford owning players and the need for long-term consistency. The club are yet to make a loan signing this window.

  • Out-of-contract defenders Paul Huntington, who made 21 appearances last season, and Jack Hunt have both been training with the squad during pre-season. Alexander is yet to decide whether they will be offered deals.

  • Defender Neill Byrne is out for at least two months with a knee problem, with fellow defender Ciaran Kelly (groin) and forward Calum Kavanagh (shin) doubts for this Saturday.

Listen to the full pre-match press conference with Graham Alexander and more on BBC Sounds.

Listen on BBC Sounds