Alexander on new Bradford deal and recruitment
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.
