Bradford City have announced the capture of defender Paudie O’Connor on a three-year deal.
The 21-year-old has joined the Bantams following a successful loan spell at the tail end of last season. He was unable to prevent Gary Bowyer’s side slipping out of the third-tier, but he caught the eye sufficiently to warrant them going back in for him this season.
O’Connor joined Leeds from Limerick in 2017, but only appeared four times for the Elland Road side. He spent the first part of last season on loan with Blackpool in League One, catching the eye by scoring against Arsenal in the League Cup, only to be sent off late in the game.
That was followed by a move to Valley Parade, but struggled at first for outings under David Hopkin. Gary Bowyer arrived, handed him the captain’s armband and gave him nine appearances.
He’s now back at the club, this time on a permanent deal. He reportedly turned down offers in League One to link up again with Bowyer, the same manager who took him to Blackpool.
“This is the best possible move for me,” O’Connor said.
“Gary (Bowyer) and I have a great relationship. We compliment each other well and I understand his demands. He plays football the right way so it suits me down to the ground, signing for City.
“Being a leader comes with the way I play. I am always on the front foot. Over the coming three years I am desperate to be associated with success.”
It’s fair to say that Bradford fans are incredibly delighted with the capture of the youngster, as you’ll read from their social media reaction below.
Wow 3 year deal permanent that is some signing 👏🏻 that really is a quality signing.
— RB (@burkeybcfc) June 18, 2019
Great signing and a 3 year deal too. Quality work from the club behind the scenes!
— Phil BCAFC (@PhilBradbury87) June 18, 2019
What a signing!! Expecting us to concede zero goals next season with the defence we have.
— South Coast Bantam (@CraigAndrew3) June 18, 2019
Now that is a statement of intent
— Craig Simpson (@CraigS7590) June 18, 2019
Now that’s a good signing! Looked the real deal towards the back end of the season. Impressed with that one.
— Clark (@SpionKopite1892) June 18, 2019
Proverbial wall now built. Class
— ᴍʀᴅɪɴᴋ (@MrDinkPanther) June 18, 2019
https://twitter.com/Ackroyd_Gareth/status/1141033783229071361
